Tanzanian driver, Kenyan charged over Ksh.10M bhang haul in Mariakani

Paul Ogolla Ogutu alias Ogola and Emmanuel Ndoro Chaka alias Ndoro appeared before Mombasa Resident Magistrate Jamlick Muriithi Mwenda on Tuesday, where they denied charges of trafficking narcotic drugs contrary to Section 4(a)(ii) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act.

The prosecution told the court that on June 19, 2026, the accused persons, jointly with others not before the court, trafficked 333.35 kilograms of cannabis valued at Ksh 10,000,500 in the Mariakani area of Kaloleni Sub-County, Kilifi County.

According to the prosecution, anti-narcotics detectives intercepted and impounded a white FAW JH5 truck, registration number KDL 220P, towing trailer ZE 6680 and carrying container MSMU 6177520.

A search of the vehicle led to the recovery of nine sacks containing dry plant material suspected to be bhang.

Investigations established that the substances weighed 333.35 kilograms with an estimated street value exceeding Ksh 10 million.

The exhibits were documented and forwarded to the Government Chemist for analysis.

Prosecution Counsel Martin Mbote opposed the release of the accused on bond, citing compelling reasons including the risk of absconding due to their cross-border connections and the fact that investigations remain ongoing.

He further argued that releasing the suspects could interfere with critical investigative processes.

The court directed that the matter be mentioned on July 2, 2026 for a pre-bail report and pre-trial directions