Police and KWS Bust Wildlife Traffickers,Seize Elephant Tusks Worth Ksh 11 Million

A multi-agency security team drawn from the National Police Service (NPS) and the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has arrested two suspected wildlife traffickers and seized elephant tusks valued at approximately ksh 11 million.

The operation followed a series of intelligence leads pointing to an imminent illegal wildlife trade deal.

Acting on the intelligence, officers launched a covert sting operation at Mufassa Hotel, where the suspects were believed to be finalising a transaction with a potential buyer.

At the location, officers found Imani Manasi Msumbwa and Justin Mwalima, both Tanzanian nationals, alongside Alton Jilaoneka, a Kenyan citizen.

The trio appeared relaxed and unsuspecting, unaware that security agencies were closing in.

One Suspect Escapes Arrest

However, the operation took an unexpected turn when Justin Mwalima managed to flee at the first sign of police presence, evading arrest.

The remaining two suspects were apprehended at the scene without resistance.

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Elephant Tusks Found Hidden in Vehicle

Following their arrest, the suspects led officers to their parked vehicles, where further evidence was uncovered.

A search of a Toyota Mark X bearing registration number T476 DHS revealed 20 pieces of elephant tusks hidden in the boot.

The tusks weighed a total of 110 kilograms, confirming the scale of the illegal operation.

Further inspection of a Nissan Fairland, registration number T305 EFM, led to the recovery of a weighing machine, an item believed to have been used to facilitate the trafficking process.

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The two suspects, together with the recovered exhibits and the impounded vehicles, were escorted to Namanga Police Station, where they are being processed ahead of arraignment in court.

Government Confirms Commitment to Wildlife Protection

Authorities say the successful interception underscores the government’s firm commitment to combating wildlife trafficking through intelligence-driven operations and inter-agency collaboration, aimed at safeguarding Kenya’s natural heritage and endangered species.

Members of the public are encouraged to report wildlife crimes anonymously through the DCI tip-off channels: #FichuaKwaDCI, Toll-free: 0800 722 203 and WhatsApp: 0709 570 000

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Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Sign in Nairobi. PHOTO/Dreamtime.