Detectives in Busia have intercepted a major consignment of cannabis sativa valued at over Sh23 million in a targeted anti-narcotics operation, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has confirmed.
The seizure, described by authorities as intelligence-led and well-coordinated, followed a tip-off from members of the public.
Acting on the information, a joint team of law enforcement officers raided a residential house in the Mabale area within Busia Township, uncovering what investigators suspect is part of a broader drug trafficking network.
“In a well-coordinated intelligence-led operation, law enforcement officers based in Busia Sub-County intercepted a consignment of cannabis sativa worth millions,” the DCI said in a statement.
According to the agency, a thorough search of the premises led to the discovery of 15 large gunny bags hidden in the house. The bags were found packed with cannabis sativa weighing a total of 780.95 kilograms, with an estimated street value of Sh23,428,500.
“A thorough search of the premises exposed a hidden stash: 15 huge gunny bags stuffed to the brim with cannabis sativa,” the statement added.
Three suspects — Patrick Wandera Khasali, Simon Ogola Khasali, and Dorine Glara Adongo — were arrested during the operation. The trio remains in police custody as investigations intensify.
“The trio remains in police custody as detectives attached to the Anti-Narcotics Unit (ANU), Busia, take over investigations to unravel the source, intended destination and wider network behind the consignment,” the DCI stated.
Busia County, which borders Uganda, has long been identified by security agencies as a key transit corridor for cross-border smuggling, including narcotics.
The latest seizure highlights ongoing efforts by authorities to tighten surveillance and disrupt illicit supply chains.
The DCI has reiterated the importance of public cooperation in combating drug trafficking, noting that the breakthrough was made possible through information shared by residents.