The Director of Criminal Investigations, Mohamed Amin, has called for greater collaboration among law enforcement agencies, communities and families in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
He warned that evolving criminal networks pose a growing threat to Kenya’s security and public health.
In a message marking the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (World Drug Day) 2026, Amin said Kenya joins the global community in strengthening collective action against the world drug problem as traffickers increasingly exploit technology to evade detection.
He noted that criminal syndicates are now using encrypted communication platforms, cryptocurrencies, social media, e-commerce platforms, courier services, maritime routes and international transport systems to traffic narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances across borders, often concealing their operations through sophisticated money laundering schemes.
The DCI boss also raised concern over the growing diversion and abuse of pharmaceutical drugs, the emergence of new psychoactive substances, and the increasing recruitment of young people into drug trafficking and substance abuse through online platforms.
According to Amin, these trends threaten national security, public health, economic development and the well-being of communities, adding that drug trafficking fuels corruption, organised crime, terrorism financing, human trafficking, cybercrime and violence.
He reaffirmed the Directorate of Criminal Investigations’ commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks through intelligence-led operations, financial and cybercrime investigations, undercover operations, controlled deliveries, border interdiction and international cooperation aimed at tracing and recovering proceeds of crime.
Amin said the DCI will continue strengthening partnerships with national, regional and international agencies to deny criminal syndicates safe havens.
He, however, stressed that policing alone cannot eliminate the drug menace, urging parents, teachers, religious leaders and communities to play a more active role in protecting young people and reporting suspected drug trafficking to the nearest DCI office or police station.
Addressing Kenyan youth, the DCI Director encouraged them to embrace education, innovation, entrepreneurship, sports and other productive opportunities instead of falling prey to drug traffickers and criminal gangs.
“The fight against drugs is a shared responsibility. Together, we can protect our families, secure our communities, and safeguard the future of our nation,” Amin said, reaffirming the DCI’s commitment to pursuing individuals and networks that profit from the drug trade.
