Kwale: DCI raids secret drug lab hidden behind fortified walls
By Kenneth Mwenda, August 4, 2025The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have announced the discovery of a clandestine drug lab hidden in Mwabungo village, Ukunda, Kwale County.
According to the statement posted on DCI Kenya X’s account on Monday, August 4, 2025, the area, known more for its scenic beaches and tourism, has now been thrust into the spotlight for all the wrong reasons.
After days of discreet surveillance and intelligence gathering, detectives from the Anti-Narcotics Unit and the Kenya Police mounted a well-coordinated raid on a secluded one-acre compound. Shielded behind tall walls and a fortified gate, the site turned out to be a fully operational drug lab.
Inside, officers recovered sophisticated lab equipment and a variety of chemicals believed to be used in the production of illegal drugs. They also found packaging materials clearly labelled with names of known narcotics. Two individuals were arrested at the scene and are currently in custody, pending arraignment.
Further inspection of the compound uncovered cultivated sections suspected to be growing cannabis, suggesting prolonged illegal activity at the site.
“The National Police Service has reiterated its commitment to dismantling drug networks and keeping Kenyan communities safe from the harmful effects of narcotics and the illegal drug trade,” the DCI said, emphasising their dedication to dismantling criminal networks across the country.
Nationwide drug crackdown
This latest operation is part of a larger nationwide crackdown by law enforcement on the illegal drug trade. Just days earlier, similar efforts were carried out in Mombasa, Kisii, Murang’a, and Laikipia counties.
In Mombasa’s Likoni area, police recovered 38 rolls of bhang and stolen items after a raid on a house in the Soweto, JCC zone. In Kisii, two people were arrested after police intercepted 30 kilograms of suspected cannabis during a mobile patrol along the Kisii-Migori highway.
In Murang’a, a known drug peddler was caught with 63 rolls of bhang concealed in his jacket. Additionally, a raid in Laikipia led to the recovery of stolen property believed to have been looted during recent protests.
The National Police Service has credited these successes to increased public cooperation and intelligence-led operations. They praised citizens for coming forward with tips and reaffirmed their commitment to keeping Kenyan communities safe from the harms of drug abuse and trafficking.