A coordinated operation between the National Police Service and the Kenya Wildlife Service has led to the arrest of two individuals found in illegal possession of wildlife trophies in Migori County. The suspects were apprehended in the Namba area of Suna East Sub-County while transporting six elephant tusks concealed in a sack.
Acting on intelligence, the officers intercepted a blue Bajaj motorcycle believed to be ferrying the illicit cargo. Upon inspection, they uncovered six tusks weighing a total of 18.8 kilograms. The seized ivory is estimated to be worth KSh 1.8 million on the black market.
The arrested individuals include a 35-year-old woman who was the passenger carrying the sack containing the tusks and a 58-year-old man who was operating the motorcycle. Both were taken into custody and processed for prosecution. They are currently being held pending their appearance in court to face charges related to the illegal possession and trafficking of wildlife trophies.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenge of wildlife poaching and trafficking in Kenya, particularly the illicit trade in elephant ivory. Elephant poaching remains a significant threat to conservation efforts, with tusks highly sought after in illegal markets. Possession of such trophies without a permit is a serious offense under Kenya’s Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, which imposes strict penalties on violators.
Authorities have launched a manhunt for a third suspect believed to have escaped during the sting operation. Investigators are pursuing leads to apprehend the individual and uncover the broader network possibly involved in the trafficking operation.
Law enforcement agencies have reiterated their commitment to intensifying crackdowns on illegal wildlife trade, urging the public to report any suspicious activities that may threaten Kenya’s rich biodiversity. The latest arrest sends a strong message to wildlife traffickers that such crimes will not go unpunished.
As investigations continue, the successful seizure of the tusks and arrests mark a significant win in the fight against wildlife crime and reflect the growing efficiency of collaborative enforcement efforts between security and conservation agencies in Kenya.
