Kenya’s anti-drug officers drawn from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) and Kenya Coast Guard Services (KCGS) are currently receiving training on drug identification training.
The drug identification training for the 28 officers kicked off on Monday, December 2, 2024, presided over by DCI boss Mohamed Amin.
In a statement on Monday, December 2, 2024, DCI said the week-long training focuses on enriching the skills of anti-drug operators, to identify drugs and analyze suspects’ behaviour, thereby combating the use and trafficking of narcotics and other psychotropic substances.
“Drug identification training is not just about recognizing substances; it is about safeguarding lives. Accurate identification prevents misuse, ensures proper medical treatment, and supports law enforcement efforts. It is a critical skill for healthcare professionals, law enforcers and educators alike,” Amin said.
Drug Enforcement Administration role
According to the DCI, the training has equiped and facilitated by America’s Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL).
NACADA CEO Dr Anthony Omerikwa pointed out that the issue of illicit drug cultivation, trafficking and abuse was not just a Kenyan problem but a global menace.
“It’s like a bad guest who doesn’t knock on the door but still manages to mess up your house,” Omerikwa stated.
Also present was Col. Boru Kula representing the commandant of the National Police Service Training Campus in Kiganjo Bruno Shioso, the Director General of Kenya Coast Guard Services (KCGS) and the Director of Anti-Narcotics at DCI Samuel Laboso.
