SHOCK as detectives uncover secret narcotics lab in Ukunda and arrest 2 suspects, including an Italian - They have been manufacturing hard drugs (PHOTOs)

Monday, August 4, 2025 - What seemed like a peaceful corner of Kenya’s beautiful coastline turned out to be the unexpected site of a major drug bust.

Detectives have uncovered a secret narcotics lab tucked away in a quiet neighborhood of Mwabungo village, Ukunda - a place more often associated with serene beaches than crime.

After days of discreet surveillance and intelligence gathering, a team from the Anti-Narcotics Unit and Kenya Police carried out a well-coordinated raid on a secluded one-acre compound. Hidden behind tall walls and a heavily guarded gate, the location turned out to be more than it appeared.

Inside, officers arrested two individuals: Gianardi Giulio, a 37-year-old Italian national, and Moses Nanoka Egadwa.

The team recovered lab equipment and chemicals suspected to be used in the manufacture of drugs, as well as packaging materials clearly marked with names of known narcotics.

Further searches revealed sections of the compound being used to cultivate what is believed to be cannabis, adding to the growing list of evidence pointing to long-term illegal activity.

The suspects are now in custody and awaiting formal charges in court.

The National Police Service has reiterated its commitment to dismantling drug networks and keeping Kenyan communities safe from the harmful effects of narcotics and the illegal drug trade.

The Kenyan DAILY POST