In a major blow to narcotics trafficking along the West Nile–Kampala road, police in Arua have intercepted a massive consignment of marijuana and arrested a 31-year-old woman suspected of coordinating the shipment.
The operation, which took place at the busy Baby Coach Bus terminal, uncovered 100 kilograms of the illegal herb meticulously packed and hidden to bypass security checks.
According to authorities, the suspect identified as a saloon operator from Ayivu East Division had gone to great lengths to conceal the narcotics. The marijuana was compressed into two large, sealed boxes and heavily layered with tobacco leaves.
Police believe the tobacco was used not only as a physical cover but also to utilize its strong, pungent scent to mask the distinct aroma of the marijuana from sniffer dogs and routine inspections.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect was preparing to board a bus to Kampala, where the drugs were allegedly destined for a high-value sale.
The suspect is currently held at the Arua Central Police Station as detectives work to establish the origin of the 100kg haul. Police have signaled that this arrest is part of a broader intelligence-led effort to dismantle drug trafficking syndicates that use the West Nile route as a transit point for illegal goods heading to the capital.
Authorities have urged bus operators and terminal managers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious cargo, noting that traffickers are increasingly targeting public transport to move bulk consignments.
