A Kenyan woman has been apprehended by Vietnamese authorities after being found in possession of 2.3 kilograms of cocaine concealed in her luggage.

The arrest took place at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, where the narcotics were discovered during a routine security screening on July 14.

The woman, identified as M.M.N., had travelled from Nairobi International Airport, transiting through Addis Ababa in Ethiopia and Doha in Qatar, before arriving in Vietnam.

The estimated international market value of the seized cocaine is approximately Sh27 million.

In Kenya, a kilogram of cocaine typically sells for between Sh4 million and Sh5 million, but its value can rise as high as Sh12 million on the international market, according to police sources.

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Vietnamese media reports indicate that the drugs were cleverly concealed in the top and bottom compartments of the woman's suitcase.

Authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into this transnational drug trafficking case, collaborating with relevant agencies to uncover further details.

Vietnam's Penal Code stipulates severe punishments for illegal narcotics transportation, ranging from two to 20 years imprisonment, a life sentence, or even the death penalty, depending on the gravity of the offence.

Notably, Vietnam serves as a significant trafficking hub in the Golden Triangle, an area encompassing China, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar, renowned as the world's second-largest drug-producing region.

Vietnam's strict drug laws reflect its determination to combat drug-related activities. Individuals found guilty of possessing or smuggling more than 600 grams of heroin or cocaine, or over 2.5 kilograms of methamphetamine, may face capital punishment.

With a sprawling border of 2,300 kilometres shared with neighbouring countries, Vietnam's extensive connectivity serves as an advantageous route for drug syndicates.

In particular, Ho Chi Minh City, due to its proximity to Cambodia, has become an attractive transit point for smugglers.

The recent arrest of the Kenyan woman at Tan Son Nhat airport highlights the vigilance of Vietnamese law enforcement agencies in combating drug trafficking and their commitment to upholding stringent drug laws.

The investigation into this case continues, as authorities work diligently to dismantle international drug networks and safeguard the nation from the perils of narcotics trafficking.