The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) officers at Kiboko Pamu in collaboration with Nasaru Conservancy rangers have arrested two suspects found in possession of bush-meat in Paranai area, Masimba, in Kajiado County.

The suspects were nabbed on Thursday following a tip-off by members of the public, which enabled KWS team to respond swiftly and apprehend two men in possession of carcass of an adult male giraffe.

The suspects, identified as Maxim Mutunga, 52, and Patrick Nyamasyo, 27, from Mutiyambua Location in Makueni County, were also found with two motorcycles, a knife, panga and a spotlight believed to have been used in the poaching incident.

KWS officers confirmed the suspects are currently being held at Kiboko Pamu and will be transferred to Kajiado Police Station for formal prosecution in court.

Meanwhile, a manhunt is underway for another suspect believed to have escaped during the operation.

According to KWS, Mutunga has a history of wildlife-related offences and is currently facing charges before Kajiado Law Courts over a similar case of dealing in meat of a protected species.

Cases of poaching in Kajiado County have been on the rise, with giraffes, antelopes and other herbivores often being targeted for bush meat.

Wildlife authorities have expressed concern that the illegal trade not only puts human health at risk but also threatens the existence of endangered species and by extension also undermines ongoing conservation efforts.

As a result, KWS has intensified surveillance in collaboration with conservancy rangers to stem the vice.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Rop Janet