Suspected Ivory Trafficker Arrested in Kwale, Elephant Tusks Recovered

In a major wildlife protection operation, authorities have arrested a suspected ivory trafficker in Lungalunga, recovering four elephant tusks weighing a total of 39 kilograms.

The intelligence-led operation, conducted on March 28, 2026, was triggered when officers from the Kenya Wildlife Service in Lungalunga received credible information about a suspected trafficker. The OCS Lungalunga quickly coordinated with KWS officers and a multi-agency response team to intercept the suspect.

At approximately 1540 hours, the team apprehended Nyamawi Mwandia Kulemba in the Shirikisho area. He was transporting the tusks concealed in sacks on a blue Haojin motorcycle that had no registration plates. The suspect was immediately escorted to Lungalunga Police Station, where he remains in custody pending arraignment.

The recovered tusks have been secured as exhibits while KWS continues its investigations into the trafficking network.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations, working alongside multi-agency partners, reaffirmed its commitment to combating wildlife trafficking and protecting Kenya’s natural heritage. Authorities have warned that anyone found engaging in the illegal trade of wildlife products will face severe legal consequences.

This arrest highlights ongoing efforts by Kenyan authorities to crack down on wildlife crime and safeguard endangered species from illicit trade.