Six Iranians Arrested in Mombasa While in Possession of Narcotics Valued at KSh 8.2 Billion

Kenya, 26 October 2025 - Six Iranians were on Saturday arrested while in possession of a huge consignment of narcotics, specifically methamphetamine weighing about 1,024 kilogrammes valued at Ksh 8.2 billion.

The six were nabbed aboard a vessel called ‘Igor’, that lacked official identificaton.

Kenya navy officers while coordinating the Bahari Safi operatkion trailed the vessel about 630 kilometres East of Mombasa.

Brigadier Sankale Kiswaa, who is the Deputy Commander of the Kenya Navy, said Kenya is committed to ensuring sanctity within the Kenyan waters.

"We have been able to conduct this operation seemlessly and we were able to arrest it (the vessel) and escorted it here to the port of Mombasa where a team of multi-agency officers have been able to carry out thorough search and investigation where we have been able to find out a huge consignment of narcotics.

The director of Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI) Mohammed Amin said the analysis revealed the narcotics were methamphetamine, which is a synthetic drug.

"Six Iranian nationals were arrested and are currently in custody. They will be processed before court on Monday," Mr Amin said.

He added that the operation shows Kenya law enforcement agencies are committed to combating drug trafficking and that the Kenya Navy is on standby to ensure maritime security.

Methamphetamine is illegal in most countries due to its high potential for abuse and severe health risks. Medically, it is rarely used, especially as Desoxyn for Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or obesity, but only under strict supervision due to its dangers.

Methamphetamine is a powerful, highly addictive synthetic stimulant drug that affects the central nervous system. It has a crystalline appearance, often white or slightly yellow, and can be smoked, snorted, injected, or swallowed.

While chemically it is deemed similar to amphetamine, it has stronger effects on the brain due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier more efficiently.

Effects of Methamphetamine

Methamphetamine causes a rapid release of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin in the brain, leading to intense euphoria and increased energy. Its effects vary based on dose, method of use, and frequency.

Short-Term Effects

The physicals effects on the user of meth include increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, raised body temperature, reduced appetite, dilated pupils, and increased alertness or wakefulness. The drug has psychological effects, especially causing intense euphoria, heightened focus, increased confidence, and possible agitation or anxiety. Its instant negative effects are restlessness, rapid speech, sweating, nausea, jaw clenching, and potential for aggressive or erratic behaviour. High doses can lead to dangerous effects like seizures, heart attack, and stroke.

Long-Term Effects

'Meth' usage leads to addiction, making it difficult for users to feel pleasure without the drug.

On the physical health, the drug may cause severe dental issues, weight loss, skin sores from scratching, and organ damage due to prolonged cardiovascular strain. The mental effects it has on the user are anxiety, paranoia, hallucinations, psychosis, and cognitive impairments like memory loss or difficulty concentrating.

It also takes a toll on the behaviour of the user as it leads to increased risk of violent behaviour, social isolation, and neglect of responsibilities.

Risks and Dangers

Over-dosage of the drug can cause hyperthermia, convulsions, heart failure, or death, especially when mixed with other substances like fentanyl. Also, long term usage causes neurotoxicity, damaging dopamine and serotonin neurons - leading to mood disorders and cognitive deficits.

Additionally, there are social impacts of usage of this drug, as addiction would often lead to job losses, financial ruin, and strained relationships.