Detectives have arrested a bus turn boy after seizing cocaine worth approximately KSh2.19 million at the Malaba One-Stop Border Post. The bus driver and conductor reportedly fled during a routine inspection.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said officers discovered the suspected drugs aboard a Simba Coach bus travelling from Kampala to Nairobi. The discovery was made during routine passenger and luggage screening at the border crossing.
Driver and Conductor Flee Inspection
According to the DCI, officers singled out an unattended parcel inside the bus for further examination. However, the driver and conductor reportedly disappeared after detectives raised concerns about the package.
The two allegedly abandoned the bus and its passengers at the border post as officers proceeded with the inspection. Detectives from the National Anti-Narcotics Investigations Bureau (NANIB) later took over the consignment for further investigations.
Cocaine Found in Eight Pellets
Preliminary tests confirmed that the seized substance was cocaine, according to the DCI. The consignment comprised eight pellets weighing a total of 547.99 grammes.
Authorities estimated the drugs’ street value at KSh2,191,960, highlighting the scale of the suspected narcotics trafficking operation.
Detectives arrested the bus turn boy, identified as Meshack Medalack, in connection with the consignment. Meanwhile, investigators are pursuing the driver, identified as Karama, and conductor John Musimbi.
Investigations Into Drug Trafficking Continue
Investigators are working to establish how the cocaine was transported aboard the bus and determine the roles of the individuals linked to the consignment.
Meanwhile, authorities detained the Simba Coach bus at Malaba One-Stop Border Post as management arranged alternative transport for the affected passengers.
The DCI said it was continuing its crackdown on narcotics trafficking, particularly along transport routes and border crossings suspected of being used to move illicit drugs.
The investigation is expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the consignment and whether additional individuals were involved. The allegations against those arrested or being pursued remain subject to the ongoing investigation and due legal process.
