A police officer escaped death by a whisker after a speeding Toyota Prado loaded with a cache of marijuana swerved past a roadblock, in a dramatic turn of events.
This incident unfolded as the driver of the Prado, identified as Daniel Okoth and his accomplice Erick Ombima as well as another unidentified male, sought to transport a consignment of marijuana valued at Ksh9 million into Kenya through Nyametaburo route and later join Isebania – Migori highway at Mabera.
“Maybe, it’s this magnificent description of the machine that convinced Daniel Okoth and Erick Ombima that they had the perfect vehicle to sneak 300kg of Marijuana into the country from one of our neighbors,” expressed the DCI.
Police Lay the trap to capture the smugglers
Entrusted with the task of ferrying the banned substance through a specific route, the two men embarked on their journey, unaware of the law enforcement ambush awaiting them near the Karamu Bridge area.
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“Confident of a successful mission, the trio who drove at breakneck speed approached Karamu Bridge area, unaware that the In-charge of Isebania Police Station who was privy to the itinerary had led his troops in laying an ambush,” said the DCI in a statement.
As the Prado approached the designated area, chaos erupted when the driver attempted to bypass the roadblock, endangering the lives of officers stationed there.
The situation quickly escalated as shots rang out, forcing a sudden halt to the vehicle’s flight and resulting in the apprehension of Okoth, Ombima, and seizure of the illegal cargo they were transporting.
“Bumping into a police roadblock that provided a safe distance to pull over for a search, the driver opted to drive past the officers nearly running over one of them.”
“But with their 40th day at night, three well-calculated rapid shots from an AK47 benumbed his accelerator foot, prematurely terminating their journey,” continued the statement by DCI.
Police arrest the smugglers
Following the confrontation, Okoth and Ombima found themselves detained at the Isebania Police Station, with one accomplice managing to escape.
“During the rumpus, one male occupant scampered off like a terrified rat into the thickets, but Okoth, Obima and their drug haul stuffed in the KCLXXX Prado were rounded up. The prohibited cargo numbered 6 gunny bags,” narrated the DCI.
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In light of this incident, detectives urged the public to play a proactive role in combating drug trafficking by providing crucial information on traffickers and refraining from engaging in any drug-related activities to avoid legal repercussions.
“Members of the public are encouraged to continue sharing information on traffickers, and to disengage from any drug-related activities or trade to avoid confrontations with the law. #FichuakwaDCI. Call 0800 722 203 to report anonymously. Usiogope!” urged the DCI.