Police arrest two men trafficking Sh18 million worth ivory in Kilifi
By Sophie Njoka, July 31, 2019
Police and Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) officers have arrested two men and impounded 35kg of ivory worth Sh18.2 million in Kilifi.
Rabai sub-county police commander David Maina said the arrest followed a tip-off that the suspects were planning to deliver the ivory haul to a buyer in Mombasa.
Maina said a multi-agency team raided a house in Makobeni area where they recovered the ivory.
“The multi-agency team acting on the tip-off, raided the house before the ivory could be transported to Mombasa and recovered the haul,” he said.
The police boss said the elephant tusks were wrapped in sacks, ready for transportation using a motorcycle.
Two other suspects escaped police dragnet during the 5am raid.
“We are following close leads that will enable us bring to book, two suspects who are on the run and we are sending a stern warning that their days are numbered,” he said.
He added that the ivory may have been sourced from Tsavo East National Park and the neighbouring ranches. The suspects are held at Rabai Police Station awaiting to be arraigned today.