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Wildlife and drug traffickers arrested in Kilifi multi-agency operations

Two pieces of elephant tusks and four live terrapins that were recovered from six suspects in Kilifi County. (Photo: DCI)

By Farhiya Hussein | Sunday, June 9, 2024

Six individuals suspected of wildlife trafficking were arrested in a joint operation by multiple agencies, resulting in the seizure of two elephant tusks valued at Sh5 million and four live terrapins.

Six individuals suspected of wildlife trafficking were arrested in a joint operation by multiple agencies in Kilifi County, resulting in the seizure of two elephant tusks valued at Sh5 million and four live terrapins.

The suspects were detained at Kaloleni Shopping Center following a tip-off from citizens.

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The operation involved officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) headquarters, the Serious Crimes Unit, Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) rangers, and Kaloleni DCI officers.

The suspects are currently held at Mariakani Police Station and will be transferred to Nairobi for further processing and arraignment.

Bhang seizure

Meanwhile in another operation in the same county, the Anti-Narcotics Unit (ANU) in Malindi, working with their Mombasa counterparts, arrested two suspected traffickers and seized over 429 kilogrammes of bhang worth Sh12 million.

Acting on a tip-off, officers intercepted a Mercedes-Benz Actros (KAY 269J/ZC) on the Mariakani-Mavueni road.

The suspects were caught in the act of loading seven sacks of bhang.

Both suspects, along with the seized drugs, were transported to Mariakani Police Station, where the truck was also detained.

Authorities are urging individuals involved in drug trafficking to cease their illegal activities and pursue lawful means of earning, emphasising the rigorous enforcement of drug laws and the severe penalties for trafficking.