NAIROBI – Police Chief Douglas Kanja reaffirmed the National Police (NPS)’s commitment to combat cross-border organized crime, particularly drug-related networks, ensuring a safer, drug-free environment.
On a courtesy call from the US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) Country Karl Ash, Kanja praised the DEA’s support and highlighted its important role in strengthening the operational capabilities of the NPS.
“Their discussion focused on a wide range of issues and highlighted the long-standing partnership between the NPS and the US DEA in the fight against organized crime across borders,” the NPS said in a statement.
ASH has ensured continuous support through training, equipment delivery and intelligence sharing to enhance law enforcement efforts. He also praised NPS for his commitment to tackling drug trafficking.
The meeting, held at NPS headquarters in Nairobi, follows a similar involvement at the beginning of March, and explores how the Director of Public Prosecutors (DPP) Renson Inganga will meet with Ash to strengthen cooperation in dismantling Kenya’s cross-border criminal networks.
Collaboration with the Office of Directors of NPS, DEA and Public Thatcutions (ODPP) includes capacity building, training, mutual legal assistance (MLA), and technical support to strengthen prosecution capabilities. Key areas of focus include prosecutor-led investigation into the dismantling of drug cartels and related crimes, intelligence sharing, and technical expertise.
Operating under the US Department of Justice, the US DEA works with Kenya’s law enforcement agencies to combat drug trafficking as well as address money laundering and other multinational crimes.
Ash was accompanied by DEA special agent Mathias Walls and drug enforcement investigator Ruth Muinde. He also had the Principal Assistant to IG Mathew Kutoh, Senior Assistant Assistant Inspector for Police, Director of Samuel Laboso, Anti-Drug Unit, and other NPS staff.
