Criminal Investigators
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In a makeshift courtroom nestled within the dense acacia forests of Namanga, proceedings have been overshadowed by the presence of a playful puppy that repeatedly disrupts the trial.
As the animal darted through a Maasai shuka draped across the magistrate’s table, it provided a rare, light-hearted distraction amidst serious discussions concerning a clandestine laboratory in Oloiliai Village, Kajiado County.
The location of this impromptu courtroom lies approximately eight kilometres into the forest, representing a strategic effort to address a pressing issue.
The laboratory, referred to locally as the “medicine man’s place,” is situated roughly 163.4 kilometres from Nairobi and can be reached via a two-hour and forty-three-minute drive to the Kenya-Tanzania border town of Namanga. Due to its remoteness, the expedition requires a local guide to navigate the area. Travelling towards the village, one encounters a white cross marking a notorious water body believed to harbour malevolent spirits, which starkly contrasts the objective of locating a secret lab.
Despite the sophisticated technologies available for navigation, the facility remains elusive, concealed within the forest canopy. The investigative team eventually locates a heavily fortified compound, spanning approximately ten acres, with only a quarter occupied by structures protected by barbed wire, chain link fences, and rusting iron sheets. The proceedings are presided over by Magistrate Thuku, who sits on a makeshift wooden chair in a tent adapted for courtroom functions.
Lawyers and journalists blend into the casual environment, differing only in the presence of uniformed police officers. Before the team inspects the compound’s four main structures, Magistrate Thuku emphasizes the importance of staying hydrated. Among the structures inspected is an alleged crystal meth lab, accompanied by a makeshift gym, water storage facilities inclusive of boilers and tanks, and various items ranging from mattresses to jerrycans of chemicals.
Notably, forensic evidence consisting of a shaving machine and toothbrush was also identified. The corrosion of the iron sheets, attributed to hazardous chemicals, forms a critical element of Anti-Narcotics Officer Wycliff Otany’s testimony. Otany, a seasoned officer with training in the United States, recounts intelligence received regarding the lab and the subsequent raid on September 12, 2024, which led to the arrest of six individuals.
One suspect remains at large. Those accused include Israel Alvarado Vera, Nigerian national Egwu Ogba Mba, Ojukwu Awu—known colloquially as Pastor—and Betty Mukami Micheni. The defence has requested an independent chemical expert to analyze the evidence. This request, along with others raised during the trial, adds layers of complexity to the proceedings, which were adjourned after three hours due to worsening weather conditions.