Suspect Caught with Elephant Tusks in Migori County

 

A foreign national has been arrested in Migori County after being found in possession of 19 elephant tusks, in what authorities describe as a major breakthrough in the fight against wildlife trafficking.

The arrest was made by a joint security team comprising officers from the National Police Service (NPS), Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), and other government agencies. The suspect was apprehended in Nyamosense, an area near the Kenya-Tanzania border, following a tip-off from members of the public.

According to authorities, the operation was intelligence-led and demonstrates the ongoing commitment by security agencies to protect Kenya’s wildlife heritage from illegal trade and exploitation.

Confirming the arrest, the NPS stated that investigations are currently ongoing and the suspect remains in custody as he awaits formal charges. Authorities have not disclosed the nationality of the suspect but confirmed that he is not a Kenyan citizen.

The illegal possession of elephant tusks is a serious offense under Kenyan law, which prohibits poaching and the trafficking of ivory. The 19 tusks recovered during the operation are believed to have been intended for illegal sale, potentially in international black markets.

The National Police Service praised the public for its vigilance and cooperation, noting that community involvement plays a vital role in the success of such operations.

“This arrest is a testament to the power of intelligence sharing and collaboration between citizens and law enforcement. We thank the public for the crucial information that led to this seizure,” read a statement from the NPS.

Kenya continues to battle against wildlife crimes, particularly the poaching of elephants and rhinos, which threatens biodiversity and the country’s tourism industry. The government has increased surveillance and enforcement in border areas and national parks to curb such crimes.

The suspect is expected to be arraigned in court soon as authorities intensify efforts to dismantle poaching networks operating in the region.