Suspects flee as police seize cannabis in Busia

The seized suspected cannabis/NPS X

Police have seized suspected cannabis after two individuals fled during a routine patrol in Busia County.

In a statement on X, the National Police Service (NPS) said officers from Mayenje police post intercepted the consignment on Thursday along the Mayenje–Bulanda Road.

According to NPS, officers conducting a routine patrol identified and stopped a motorcycle suspected of transporting illicit goods.

“While on patrol, the officers identified and stopped a motorcycle suspected of transporting illicit goods. On noticing the police, both the rider and the pillion passenger abandoned the motorcycle and fled the scene on foot,” the service said.

The suspects escaped arrest but left behind the motorcycle and the suspected narcotics.

A subsequent search of the abandoned items led to the recovery of a substance believed to be cannabis sativa.

Police said the drugs were packaged in two separate consignments and wrapped in yellow cello tape, suggesting they were possibly prepared for distribution.

“All recovered exhibits, including the motorcycle and the suspected narcotics, have since been secured for safe custody, documentation and further forensic analysis,” NPS said.

The seizure comes amid an ongoing crackdown on drug trafficking in parts of western Kenya, where security agencies have increased patrols to disrupt supply chains and protect communities from narcotics.

Police did not disclose the quantity or street value of the recovered cannabis but said investigations are ongoing to establish the source and intended destination of the consignment.

NPS added that efforts have been intensified to trace and apprehend the two suspects who fled the scene.

The service also called on the public to provide information to aid in the fight against drug trafficking.

“We call on members of the public to work with us by providing information that will help in the arrest of those behind this illegal trade,” NPS said.

The motorcycle and the recovered substances are being held as exhibits while detectives pursue leads in the case.