Two Tanzanians Arrested with Elephant Tusks Worth Shs3.3 Million

In a meticulously planned operation, police officers from Mtwapa Police Station, in collaboration with Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) officers from Mombasa, have apprehended two Tanzanian nationals involved in the illegal ivory trade. The operation culminated in the recovery of elephant tusks valued at Shs3,300,000.

Acting on a reliable tip-off, the officers raided a hideout in the Majengo area of Mtwapa, where they arrested Paul Kuya, 36, and Paul Telek, 29. The officers uncovered eleven elephant tusks, weighing a total of 32.924 kilograms, cleverly concealed in nylon sacks within three separate bags.

Investigations revealed that the suspects had traveled from Tanzania to Kenya via the Namanga border, intending to sell their illicit cargo. Their journey was abruptly ended by the swift action of law enforcement.

The duo has been taken to Mtwapa Police Station, where they are being held in custody awaiting court proceedings. Meanwhile, the recovered elephant tusks have been secured as evidence.

This successful operation underscores the ongoing efforts by Kenyan authorities to combat wildlife trafficking and protect the nation’s endangered species. Credit for the information and images goes to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).