Six Iranians Arraigned Over Ksh.8 Billion Drug Trafficking Case
Six Iranian nationals accused of trafficking drugs worth Ksh.8 billion were arraigned in court on Monday. The Ksh.8 billion drug trafficking case has drawn national and international attention due to the scale of the bust and the involvement of multiple security agencies.
Arrest and Operation Details
The suspects — Jasem Darzadeh Nia, Nadeem Jadgal, Imran Baloch, Hassan Baloch, Rahim Baksh, and Imtiyaz Daryayi — appeared before the Shanzu Law Courts. They were arrested on October 24, 2025, following a coordinated multi-agency operation at Kilindini Port.
Authorities discovered 769 packages of crystalline substances suspected to be synthetic narcotics. The estimated street value of the drugs is Ksh.8 billion, making it one of Kenya’s largest maritime drug seizures.
Intelligence and Tracking Operation
According to the Kenya Navy, intelligence was shared after a suspicious vessel was detected in the Indian Ocean. The vessel, described as a “dark ship,” was operating without proper identification, raising immediate concern.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), working closely with the Navy, tracked the boat 630 kilometres east of Mombasa before escorting it to port. Laboratory tests later confirmed the seized substances were narcotics, believed to be methamphetamine.
Court Proceedings and Interpreter Issue
During the court session, prosecutors requested additional time to verify the interpreter’s credentials. They also sought an independent interpreter to ensure fair and transparent proceedings.
The court ordered the six suspects to remain in custody at the Port Police Station pending further instructions scheduled for October 28, 2025.
National Security and International Cooperation
This arrest highlights Kenya’s growing role in regional efforts to combat international drug trafficking networks. Security experts believe the operation underscores the effectiveness of joint maritime surveillance and intelligence-sharing between Kenyan agencies.
Authorities are continuing investigations to determine the origin and intended destination of the drugs, as well as any potential local collaborators.
