Officers from Langata Police Station conducted a raid on a business in Karen estate, suspected of dealing drugs under the guise of an ATM. The operation, led by Langata OCPD Monica Kimani on Tuesday, uncovered a new strategy employed by drug peddlers aiming at high-end clients in affluent neighborhoods.
During the police raid, it was revealed that the unconventional ATM setup allowed buyers and sellers to avoid face-to-face interactions, utilizing technology to preserve their anonymity.
Customers entering the shop would place their orders through a sophisticated sound communication system. Payments were then made via mobile money to eliminate direct contact between the peddlers and buyers.
Upon confirmation of payment, the drug dealer would discreetly pass the illicit substances through a small hole drilled into a tinted glass.
Officer Kimani explained that the tinted glass was strategically installed to prevent customers from identifying the peddlers.
“We conducted an operation at Liberty within the Karen area after receiving information about drug sales. Upon arrival, I confirmed the reports to be true. The location was behind shops and in proximity to garages. Three individuals have been arrested, and they will be taken to court tomorrow,” she stated.
While the police did not disclose the estimated value of the confiscated drugs, they confirmed that a significant quantity was seized during the operation.
In light of this discovery, Kimani announced plans for further investigations to dismantle similar enterprises in the area, particularly those targeting university students.
“There is a phone number there that people use to pay for the products. We will investigate to determine the owner and arrest those behind the operation. My advice to the youth, especially given the concentration of universities in this area, is to refrain from using drugs. I am deeply concerned about the opposition we encountered from many people present during the operation,” she urged.
