Authorities in Kirinyaga County have arrested three suspects after they were found in possession of elephant tusks in Kerugoya township.
The arrests were made on Monday during a joint operation led by officers from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and the National Police Service (NPS). The suspects are being held in custody and are expected to be arraigned in court.
Police said the three were linked to the trafficking of wildlife products, a trade that poses a grave threat to elephants and undermines Kenya’s conservation achievements.
“Wildlife crimes are serious offenses that threaten the lives of the species and compromise Kenya’s conservation heritage,” KWS officers noted.
The National Police Service echoed the same position, saying, “We reiterate our firm stance against wildlife crimes, terming them as offenses that not only endanger the species but also compromise the nation’s conservation legacy.”
The two agencies emphasized the importance of coordinated operations in dismantling criminal networks involved in the illegal trade of tusks and other wildlife products.
They assured Kenyans that such crackdowns will remain a top priority to protect the country’s natural heritage.
Members of the public were urged to remain vigilant and play an active role in conservation by reporting suspicious activities. Tips can be shared through the toll-free hotlines 999, 911, 112, or 0800 722 203, as well as via WhatsApp at 0709 570 000.
Kenya has stepped up efforts to combat wildlife trafficking, which continues to threaten iconic species and the country’s global reputation as a conservation leader.
