The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), through the Anti-Narcotics Unit (ANU), has handed over a consignment of narcotic drugs that were seized at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to Tanzanian authorities. 

The handover follows a Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA) request submitted by the Tanzanian government in relation to criminal proceedings against suspects Mohammed Yusuph Mzimba and Enrique Dos Santos.

This was after the suspicious consignment, which originated from Tanzania and was in transit to the Netherlands, was intercepted at JKIA on 9th November 2020. 

Upon inspection, 56 packages containing powdery substances disguised as hair braids were recovered.

“The powdery substances were subsequently tested and analyzed by the Government Analyst and confirmed to be 1,712.34 grams of heroin, a prohibited substance under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act No. 4 of 1994,” DCI reported.

This successful seizure was part of collaborative efforts between Kenya and its regional partners to dismantle transnational narcotics networks that pose significant threats to regional security and public health.

Speaking during the handover ceremony on September 10, 2025, the ANU Director reaffirmed the DCI’s commitment to strengthening cross-border cooperation in the fight against drug trafficking. 

He emphasized that narcotics not only destroy lives and communities but also fuel organized crime, which undermines economic stability and security across the region.

On his part, the Director in charge of Interpol’s National Central Bureau (NCB), Mr. Ibrahim Jillo, noted that criminal networks exploit jurisdictional gaps, geographical challenges, and bureaucratic delays to further their illegal trade hence the need for strong, consistent, and structured collaborations.

At the same time, the Director of Legal Services, Mr. Augustine Kitonyi, called for further strengthened cooperation, not just in narcotics enforcement, but across all areas of transnational crime.

Representing the Tanzanian government, Mr. Isaac Isanzu, an official from the Tanzanian High Commission, commended the DCI for its vigilance and professionalism. 

He noted that the gesture reflects the deepening bilateral cooperation between the two nations in combating the global challenge of illicit drug trafficking.

Also present during the handover ceremony were Tanzania’s Anti-Narcotics Director, Mr. Israel Makongo, and the ODPP representative, Mr. Elisante Masaki.