Kenya’s justice system has taken another firm step in the fight against international drug trafficking following a major court development involving foreign suspects and a large shipment of illegal drugs. The case highlights the country’s growing role in stopping narcotics from moving through the region and into global markets.
Six Iranian nationals have admitted to their involvement in trafficking a huge consignment of methamphetamine that was intercepted on the high seas.
The drugs, weighing more than one tonne, were valued at about KSh 8.2 billion. The guilty pleas were entered before Chief Magistrate Anthony Mwicigi at the Shanzu Law Courts, marking a key moment in a case that has drawn attention due to its scale and international nature.
The accused are Jaseem Darzadeh Nia, Nadeem Jadgal, Hassan Baloch, Raheem Baksh, Imran Baloch and Imtiyaz Daryay. According to the prosecution, the six were involved in trafficking 1,036 kilograms of methamphetamine.
The six Iranian nationals convicted of drug trafficking.
The offence took place between October 17 and October 20, 2025, in international waters roughly 350 nautical miles east of the Port of Mombasa.
Investigators told the court that the drugs were hidden aboard a vessel known as Mashaallah. The boat was described as stateless, meaning it was not registered under any country. Prosecutors explained that such vessels are often used by international criminal groups because they make it harder for authorities to track ownership and claim legal control. This tactic is commonly used to avoid detection and delay enforcement action when ships are intercepted at sea.
The six suspects were arrested on October 25, 2025, after security agencies carried out extensive investigations. Following further inquiries and coordination between different authorities, they were formally brought before the court on January 12, 2026.
The case was presented by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, which said the investigations were detailed and required time due to the nature of the offence and the amount of evidence involved.
The charges were filed under Section 4(a)(ii) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act of 1994, which was amended in 2022. Prosecutors noted that the changes to the law have strengthened Kenya’s ability to deal with large drug shipments and international trafficking networks, especially those operating beyond territorial waters.
During the court session, the prosecution requested two weeks to organize and present the full facts of the case. They asked that the hearing be scheduled for January 30, 2026, at the Kenya Navy base in Mtongwe. This location was suggested because the seized vessel and the large drug exhibits are being held there, making it easier to present physical evidence.
The court was also asked to remand the accused at Shimo La Tewa Prison while waiting for the next hearing. This request was made to ensure the suspects remain in custody as the case moves forward.
