Authorities in Migori County have apprehended a foreign national in Nyamosense in connection with the illegal possession of elephant tusks. The arrest was made through a coordinated effort by a multi-agency team comprising security officers and wildlife authorities committed to tackling wildlife crimes.
The suspect was found in possession of 19 elephant tusks at the time of arrest. Acting on intelligence, the security team executed a successful operation leading to the seizure. The suspect is currently in custody, pending formal processing and arraignment in court.
This arrest highlights the government’s strengthened efforts to protect endangered species and combat wildlife trafficking. The illegal trade in wildlife trophies, particularly elephant ivory, remains a significant threat to conservation in Kenya and across the region. Authorities have reiterated their resolve to dismantle trafficking networks and bring perpetrators to justice.
Investigations into the incident are ongoing, with a focus on uncovering the broader network behind the smuggling of the tusks. Officials have not ruled out the possibility of more arrests as they work to determine the scale and extent of the trafficking operation.
This development follows closely on the heels of another wildlife crime bust in Migori County, where two individuals were arrested in the Namba area of Suna East Sub-County. The operation, carried out earlier in the week, also involved a joint team of law enforcement and wildlife officers.
During that operation, officers intercepted a blue Bajaj motorcycle in transit. Upon inspection, the motorcycle was found to be carrying six elephant tusks. The tusks, weighing approximately 18.8 kilograms, are estimated to be worth KSh 1.8 million.
The back-to-back arrests in Migori underscore the urgency and intensity of current anti-poaching initiatives in the region. Authorities have called on the public to remain vigilant and continue sharing information that may aid in the identification and apprehension of individuals involved in wildlife crimes.
Efforts to curb the illegal ivory trade are part of a broader national strategy to safeguard Kenya’s rich biodiversity and protect its iconic wildlife from extinction.
