A multi-agency security team has arrested two suspected wildlife trophies traffickers and seized elephant tusks valued at about Ksh11 million at Namanga, Kajiado County.

Officers from the National Police Service (NPS) and the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) carried out the operation following intelligence reports that revealed impending illegal wildlife trade deal at a hotel in the frontier town.

The suspects, identified as Imani Manasi Msumbwa – a Tanzanian national, and Alton Jilaoneka – a Kenyan, were arrested at Mufassa Hotel. A third suspect, Justin Mwalima – also a Tanzanian, escaped during the operation and is currently being sought by police.

After their arrest, the suspects led officers to two parked vehicles where the exhibits were recovered. A search of a Toyota Mark X, registration number T476 DHS, uncovered 20 pieces of elephant tusks weighing a total of 110 kilogrammes concealed in the car boot.

Further inspection of a Nissan Fairland registration number T305 EFM, revealed a weighing machine believed to have been used in the illegal trade. The suspects, the impounded vehicles and recovered exhibits are at Namanga Police Station. The suspects are expected to be arraigned in court today, Monday.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the tusks may have originated in Malawi and are linked to a well-established regional cartel.

Authorities believe that the suspects were seeking buyers outside the region before attempting to move the ivory through Kenya.

The police said that the arrest underscores the government’s commitment to combating wildlife trafficking through intelligence-led operations and enhanced collaboration among security agencies.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Diana Meneto