Police in Meru County have intercepted and seized 15 bales of cannabis sativa in a major operation targeting illegal drug trafficking networks in the region.

According to the National Police Service (NPS), the successful operation was carried out along the busy Ruiri–Nchiru Road in Imenti North Sub-County after officers received a credible tip-off from members of the public.

Police said the drugs were being transported in an Isuzu lorry, which had been modified with secret compartments to conceal the contraband.

Upon spotting the officers, the driver of the vehicle reportedly jumped out and fled into nearby bushes, abandoning the truck. Officers later conducted an extensive search and discovered the 15 bales of cannabis carefully hidden in the false compartment.

The lorry and the seized drugs were towed to the Meru Police Station as officers launched a manhunt for the suspect, who remains at large.

In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), the NPS commended the public for their cooperation and urged continued vigilance in the fight against narcotics.

“We encourage the public to continue supporting the fight against drug trafficking by sharing timely information that helps law enforcement,” read the NPS post.

The police have intensified their crackdown on drug networks across the county, with authorities linking the rise in narcotics trade to cross-border smuggling routes and the growing demand in urban centres.

Meanwhile, the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has also stepped up surveillance in the region, warning that the increasing availability of cannabis and illicit brews poses a significant threat to youth and community safety.

Local residents applauded the police for the successful operation, noting that drug-related crimes have been on the rise in parts of Meru and neighbouring Tharaka Nithi.

“This kind of action restores public trust. We have seen too many cases of youth dropping out of school because of bhang and alcohol,” said one resident.

The latest seizure adds to a series of anti-narcotics operations in recent weeks, signaling renewed efforts by security agencies to dismantle trafficking cartels across Kenya.

Police say the suspect, once arrested, will face charges related to drug possession and trafficking. Investigations are ongoing.