Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS) officers in covert intelligence operation arrested three suspects in Lokichar, Turkana County, with wildlife trophies.

The officers found the trio transporting 42 kilogrammes of elephant ivory as well as leopard and python skins on a motorcycle.

The suspects were apprehended by a joint covert intelligence team from KWS that also seized a motorcycle believed to have been used to transport the illegal wildlife trophies.

KWS said in a statement that the operation underlines its determination to eradicate wildlife trafficking networks and its commitment to protecting endangered species in Kenya and eastern Africa.

“The suspects are currently in custody and will be arraigned in court,” the agency said, noting that investigations are ongoing to establish whether the trio is linked to a wider poaching syndicate operating in northern Kenya.

The statement said: “This operation highlights our resolute commitment to protecting Kenya’s wildlife and bringing traffickers to justice. The suspects are in custody and will be arraigned in court.”

The organisation underscored the need to protect wildlife adding that a live animal is worth far more than any trophy.

Elephant ivory and skins from protected species such as leopards and pythons are classified as wildlife trophies under Kenyan law, with offenders facing heavy fines and lengthy prison sentences upon conviction.

KWS warned that poaching and illegal wildlife trade pose a serious threat to Kenya’s biodiversity, ecosystems and tourism-dependent livelihoods.

“A live animal is worth far more than any trophy,” the agency said, adding that wildlife conservation remains critical to sustaining ecosystems and supporting communities for generations to come.

Kenya has stepped up intelligence-driven operations in recent years as part of broader efforts to dismantle trafficking routes and curb demand for illegal wildlife products both locally and internationally.

Additionally, wildlife sustains ecosystems, tourism and livelihoods for generations. Poaching destroys that future for short-term gain.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Peter Gitonga