Joyce Akinyi, the notorious businesswoman linked to a sophisticated transnational narcotics network, has been convicted in a high-profile drug trafficking case that has revealed deep connections to powerful accomplices attempting to shield her from justice.
Akinyi, who has long been associated with the illicit heroin trade, was arrested in 2019 along with two other suspects, Congolese national Pauline Kalala and Peres Ochieng, following a major drug bust at her Deep West bar in Nairobi West. Authorities recovered 1,002 grams of heroin, valued at Sh3 million, concealed in her establishment. The case has been closely watched due to the involvement of powerful individuals believed to be working to protect her.
Prosecution Resilient in the Face of Pressure
Sources close to the prosecution team, led by Norah Achieng, Annette Wangia, and Faith Mwila, have confirmed that throughout the five-year trial, multiple attempts were made to influence and stall the case. Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) Renson Ingonga revealed that well-connected figures sought to minimize Akinyi’s charges, with the ultimate aim of securing a lighter sentence or even dropping the case entirely.
In an exclusive statement, DPP Ingonga emphasized that despite these efforts, the prosecution team remained resolute in presenting compelling evidence linking Akinyi to a vast drug trafficking operation spanning multiple continents.
“There were multiple attempts to sway the outcome of this case, but we stood firm,” said Ingonga. “We are committed to sending a clear message that drug traffickers will face the full force of the law. We will not be intimidated.”
Ingonga further indicated that authorities are now focused on uncovering the network of powerful individuals who attempted to protect Akinyi and her criminal activities. “We are committed to working with law enforcement and our partners to expose these shadowy figures, and they will be brought to justice,” he added.
A Long History of Criminal Activity
Akinyi has gained notoriety over the years for her involvement in the heroin trade, often operating under the radar with the help of accomplices who shielded her from prosecution. She was known to operate a highly organized network, recruiting young men and women to serve as drug mules, with heroin shipments bound for markets in Europe and Asia. Many of her couriers have been arrested abroad, particularly in Asia, and are now serving lengthy prison sentences.
In 2020, the High Court ordered Akinyi to forfeit two luxury vehicles, valued at Sh20 million, which were deemed proceeds of her criminal activity after she failed to explain their acquisition. These vehicles, along with other properties, will be targeted for freezing as investigators pursue further asset recovery efforts.
A Complex Web of Crime and Corruption
Akinyi’s criminal empire has extended far beyond drug trafficking. The proceeds of her illicit activities were reportedly funneled into investments in Nairobi’s lucrative hospitality and real estate sectors, including properties in Nairobi West, Lang’ata, and Kileleshwa, as well as luxury vehicles.
In addition to her business dealings, Akinyi’s past has been marked by personal scandal. She gained national attention in 2009 following a very public fallout with her Nigerian husband, Anthony Chinedu, who was deported from Kenya in 2014. The couple’s bitter divorce battle centered around the control of their joint narcotics operation, with Akinyi accusing Chinedu of being a fugitive drug trafficker.
Ongoing Investigation
The prosecution team is now turning its focus toward unraveling the full extent of Akinyi’s criminal enterprise and identifying the powerful individuals who tried to protect her. This includes pursuing the seizure of additional assets linked to her drug trade.
Akinyi and her co-accused are set to be sentenced on December 10, 2024, but investigators continue to gather evidence and pursue further leads in the case. While Akinyi’s conviction marks a significant victory, authorities remain determined to bring all those involved in her criminal network to justice.