Kenyan receives 30 years for drug trafficking
1.1 metric tons of cocaine seized.
Kenya seeking extradition.
Kenya seeking extradition.
An African man has been sentenced to 30 years, following one of Africa's largest drug seizures. The cocaine, contained in over 950 sachets, has been publicly destroyed to stifle fears that it would be sold.
David Mugo Kiragu was found guilty of drug trafficking by a court in Nairobi. Five other suspects were acquitted, including two Italians. The prime suspect, Mr Kiragu's brother, is currently serving a jail term in the Netherlands. The Kenyan government is seeking and extradition order.
'This country is now described as a major centre for drug trafficking and this has created a bad image and name for residents of this country', commented Chief magistrate Aggrey Muchelule.
Hard drugs are becoming an increasing problem in Kenya. Internal Security minister John Michuki said that the influx of drugs had caused prices to plummet, making them readily available. 39 cases were reported in 2004, rising to 132 cases last year.
David Mugo Kiragu was found guilty of drug trafficking by a court in Nairobi. Five other suspects were acquitted, including two Italians. The prime suspect, Mr Kiragu's brother, is currently serving a jail term in the Netherlands. The Kenyan government is seeking and extradition order.
'This country is now described as a major centre for drug trafficking and this has created a bad image and name for residents of this country', commented Chief magistrate Aggrey Muchelule.
Hard drugs are becoming an increasing problem in Kenya. Internal Security minister John Michuki said that the influx of drugs had caused prices to plummet, making them readily available. 39 cases were reported in 2004, rising to 132 cases last year.