Four suspects have been arraigned before the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport Law Courts in Nairobi, facing charges of trafficking cannabis following a seizure in Athi River, Machakos County.
The accused Marieta Mbula Nzuki, Irene Muthike Kasola, Josephat Mwangi Maina and Margaret Mbithe Musyoki appeared in court and pleaded not guilty to the charges during their initial appearance.
According to the prosecution, the four are accused of jointly trafficking approximately 16.084 kilogrammes of cannabis with an estimated street value exceeding KSh480,000. The alleged offence occurred on 14 April 2026 in the Ndongare area of Athi River.
Prosecutors told the court that the suspects acted in concert with other individuals who remain at large. Investigations into the wider network are ongoing, with authorities seeking to identify and apprehend additional suspects linked to the consignment.
Through their legal representatives from Danstan Omari & Advocates, the accused applied to be released on bail pending the hearing and determination of the case. The defence argued that the suspects are entitled to bail under the Constitution and are willing to comply with any conditions set by the court.
The prosecution did not oppose the bail application but urged the court to first obtain a pre-bail report to guide its decision.
The court directed a probation officer to prepare and file the report ahead of the next mention scheduled for 27 April 2026, when a ruling on bail is expected.
The suspects remain in custody as the judicial process continues. Authorities say efforts to combat drug trafficking across key transit areas remain ongoing as investigations into the case proceed.
