Police officers in Busia have arrested a man found transporting 12 kilograms of bhang worth an estimated KShs 360,000 concealed on his body in an unusual disguise. The suspect was intercepted on Saturday afternoon at Suo roadblock along the busy Busia–Kisumu Highway while riding on a boda boda motorcycle.
According to police reports, the suspect had strapped the narcotics tightly to his torso, creating the illusion of a muscular physique. From a distance, officers said, the man appeared as though he had just walked out of a gym, boasting a well-toned chest and stomach muscles. However, a closer inspection revealed that what looked like a new set of “six-pack abs” was in fact carefully packed rolls of cannabis.
“The man had disguised himself as someone with bulging muscles, but upon search, our officers uncovered rolls of bhang hidden under his clothes,” one officer at the checkpoint explained.
The suspect, whose identity has not yet been made public, was traveling with two accomplices on motorcycles. As soon as the officers flagged them down, his colleagues abandoned him and sprinted off in different directions, leaving him to face the law alone. Police said the two managed to escape into nearby bushes and are currently being pursued.
The bhang, estimated to have a street value of KShs 360,000, was neatly packed and strapped using layers of clothing to avoid suspicion. Police believe the consignment was headed to Kisumu and possibly Nairobi, where demand for narcotics remains high.
Busia County Police Commander confirmed the arrest and lauded the officers at Suo roadblock for their vigilance. He noted that drug traffickers are becoming increasingly creative in their methods of transportation, but assured the public that police are continuously enhancing surveillance on all major highways.
“This is yet another example of the lengths criminals are willing to go in order to push illegal substances into our communities. Fortunately, our officers are alert and will continue to crack down on such activities,” the police commander said.
The suspect is currently being held at Busia Police Station and is expected to be arraigned in court early next week. He will face charges related to drug trafficking, possession, and intent to supply.
The incident highlights the growing challenge of narcotics trafficking across Kenya’s borders, particularly in western regions such as Busia, which is a key gateway for trade and movement between Kenya and Uganda. Authorities say drug dealers often exploit porous border points, poorly monitored rural paths, and busy highways to move their contraband.
Kenya has in recent years intensified its war against narcotics, with police, anti-narcotics units, and community leaders working together to intercept shipments and sensitize the public on the dangers of drug abuse. Despite these efforts, traffickers continue to devise new tricks to outwit law enforcement.
In Busia alone, police have seized hundreds of kilograms of marijuana and other illicit substances over the past year. Just last month, officers intercepted another consignment hidden inside sacks of maize destined for Nairobi. Authorities say the trend is worrying, not only because of its impact on youth addiction but also due to the criminal networks that benefit from the trade.
Community leaders in Busia have applauded the police for the arrest, calling for continued vigilance and harsher penalties for traffickers. “We cannot allow our young people to be destroyed by drugs. Every successful arrest is a step towards protecting our families and society,” said a local elder.
As the investigation continues, police are urging members of the public to report suspicious movements or individuals they suspect may be involved in narcotics trafficking. They believe community cooperation is key to winning the battle against drugs.
For now, the man who attempted to pass off a “six pack” made of bhang instead of muscle will have to trade his fake gym look for a prison uniform as the law takes its course.
