KDF Rejects Theft Allegations in KSh 8.2 Billion Meth Bust
The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has firmly dismissed claims that its officers stole part of a 1,024kg methamphetamine consignment valued at KSh 8.2 billion, seized off the Kenyan coast on October 25, 2025.
In a statement, KDF affirmed that the entire haul remains intact under round-the-clock multi-agency protection, while investigations into the allegations proceed .
The multi-agency team involving the Kenya Navy, Kenya Coast Guard, and NACADA seized methamphetamine worth Ksh. 8.2 billion and arrested six Iranian nationals believed to have been ferrying the drugs.
On the military’s rebuttal, highlighting the operation’s success amid circulating rumors .
Seizure Operation
A multi-agency team, including KDF personnel, intercepted a stateless dhow carrying the crystal meth during a maritime security effort.
Six Iranian nationals aboard the vessel were arrested and later arraigned in Mombasa’s Shanzu Law Courts on November 27
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations continues probing the drugs’ origin and destination within the region.
KDF’s Response
Authorities acted after receiving intelligence from regional and international partners on the suspicious vessel that had been under surveillance while moving through the western Indian Ocean.
According to KDF, the narcotics were offloaded and transported to shore under the supervision of a joint security unit.
However, reports later surfaced alleging that some KDF officers may have stolen and concealed part of the shipment for personal gain.
“It has been alleged that during the operation, and as the narcotics were being offloaded for transport ashore, some KDF personnel involved in the mission stole and concealed a portion of the narcotics for personal gain,” the statement read.
“We wish to clarify that the entire 1,024 kilograms of methamphetamine offloaded ashore remains intact and is under continuous, round-the-clock protection by a dedicated multi-agency security team.”
KDF emphasized full cooperation with authorities reviewing the implicated personnel, promising disciplinary and legal action if claims prove true.
“The suspected KDF personnel are currently under investigation by the relevant authorities. Should the allegations be substantiated, appropriate disciplinary and legal measures will be taken in accordance with the law.”
The military urged the public to focus on the interception’s achievement rather than unverified reports.