Authorities have intercepted a 13-foot python that was being smuggled through the Namanga One Stop Border Post, in a suspected case of wildlife trafficking.

According to the Kenya Police Service report on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, the large reptile was discovered concealed inside a box disguised as spare parts during a routine inspection of a Dar es Salaam–Nairobi bus.

Officers stationed at the busy border point flagged the suspicious package, leading to the recovery of the snake.

“A 13-foot python has been intercepted at the Namanga One Stop Border Post, hidden inside a box disguised as spare parts. The reptile was discovered by hawk-eyed officers during a routine search on a Dar es Salaam–Nairobi bus,” NPS stated.

How it was discovered

The python was detected by vigilant officers who conducted a thorough search of the vehicle as part of ongoing efforts to curb illegal cross-border activities.

According to the police service, the reptile has since been secured as investigations continue into the attempted smuggling.

The NPS said the bus crew is currently in custody and is assisting authorities with investigations aimed at establishing the origin, intended destination, and possible trafficking network behind the incident.

“The bus crew are currently in custody as investigations continue. Wildlife crime? Not on our watch,” NPS said.

Chinese national convicted on ant smuggling

A Chinese national has been convicted in Kenya for illegally trafficking ants in a case authorities say signals a growing threat to biodiversity.

The Kenya Wildlife Service confirms that Zhang Kuquen was found guilty at the JKIA Law Courts for smuggling Messor cephalotes, a species of ant vital to ecosystem balance.

The court fined him one million shillings or, in default, sentenced him to one year in prison. He also faces an additional one-year custodial sentence.

Wildlife officials say the conviction highlights the seriousness with which Kenyan courts are treating wildlife crimes — including the illegal trade in lesser-known species.