Police intensify crackdown, nets over 1K cannabis rolls in Kwale
By Emmanuel Rono, April 2, 2026Law enforcement officers have intensified their crackdown on the possession and distribution of narcotics, resulting in a significant drug seizure in Msambweni in Kwale County.
In a statement by the National Police Service (NPS) on Thursday, April 2, 2026, officers from the Diani Police Station conducted a targeted raid in Mwakipeku Village, located within the Kinondo Ward, discovering and recovering 1,858 rolls of cannabis sativa.
“Police officers in Kwale County have intensified operations targeting the possession and distribution of narcotic drugs as part of ongoing efforts to safeguard communities from the dangers of substance abuse,” NPS stated in the statement.
“During a recent intelligence-led operation in Msambweni Sub-County, officers from Diani Police Station conducted a raid in Mwakipeku Village, Kinondo Ward, where they recovered 1,858 rolls of cannabis sativa,” NPS said.
Narcotics secured
The police confirmed that one person of interest was arrested during the raid and is now in police custody, awaiting arraignment in court. The seized narcotics have been secured as evidence.
“One person of interest was arrested at the scene and taken into police custody for further processing and arraignment in court, while the recovered narcotics have been secured as exhibits,” NPS confirmed.
The police stated that the operation is part of a broader, ongoing effort by the National Police Service to combat drug trafficking.
They stressed that these initiatives are vital to safeguarding communities and addressing the threats that substance abuse poses to public safety and community wellbeing.
“This operation underscores the National Police Service’s continued commitment to combating drug trafficking and abuse, which remain a threat to public safety and community wellbeing,” NPS stated.
Recent arrests in coast
The operation, which has been very localised in the coastal county, is against armed robbery, burglary, drug trafficking, violent land encroachments, and other criminal activities that interfere with the interests of the people.
Taking to their social media handle on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, the National Police Service confirmed that through intense crackdown activities, 17 people associated with criminal acts were arrested and are currently in custody awaiting arraignment at the court.
“As a result of a targeted multi-agency operation, 17 suspects linked to various criminal activities have been arrested and placed in custody pending arraignment in court,” the NPS statement read in part.