DCI opposes release of suspected drug baron Jeam Morlon over 'security threats'

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has opposed the release of Jeam Emmanuel Morlon, alias Lamarca J. Benjamin, an alleged international drug trafficker, citing security threats. 

In an affidavit presented at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport Law Court, Sergeant Thomas Othoo stated that Morlon posed a danger to national security, the complainant, and key witnesses in a fraud case against him. 

According to police reports, on January 25, 2025, Morlon sent a WhatsApp message to complainant Didier Guillaume Gentil, containing a photo of himself holding two pistols, with high-calibre firearms visible in the background.

Authorities claim the image was intended to intimidate Gentil into dropping the case. Additionally, Morlon allegedly sent a picture of Gentil’s wife and seven-year-old daughter, accompanied by threats of harm. 

The prosecution further described Morlon as the leader of a criminal syndicate engaged in drug trafficking, kidnapping, violent robbery, extortion, and money laundering. They argued that granting him a bond would seriously threaten public safety and national security. 

Morlon faces fraud charges for allegedly obtaining over Ksh.12 million from Mercuri Ferdinando G. on January 20, 2025. As a director of Afrex Bridge Connections Limited, he is accused of promising to transport 550 kilograms of high-value cargo from Kenya to Dubai, a deal that never materialized. 

During his arrest, police recovered two pistols, more than 90 rounds of ammunition, gun magazines, and forged mineral dealership certificates from his residences in Kileleshwa and Nanyuki Conservancy. 

However, Morlon’s defence lawyer dismissed the allegations, stating that the affidavit was based on fear rather than evidence. 

Morlon remains in custody at Industrial Area Prison as the court considers the bail application.

Morlon, who was arrested early this month on February 4, 2025, was also accused of allegedly scamming Ksh.15.5 million from two businessmen, a Romanian and a Swiss national, in a gold scheme. 

Following his arraignment on Tuesday, he pleaded not guilty to all charges before Senior Principal Magistrate at the JKIA Law Court. 

The prosecution asked the Magistrate to detain the suspect, citing concerns about his potential flight risk.