The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) officers have arrested three suspected ivory traffickers in Turkana County.
In a statement on Wednesday, January 28, KWS said the three suspects were apprehended following a covert intelligence-led operation.
During the operation, the KWS officers recovered 42 kilograms of elephant ivory, alongside an assortment of leopard and python skins.
“A KWS joint covert intelligence team arrested three suspects in Lokichar, Turkana County, in possession of 42 kg of elephant ivory, as well as leopard and python skins, and recovered a motorcycle used to transport the trophies,” KWS stated.
The service noted that the operation highlights KWS’s resolute commitment to protecting Kenya’s wildlife and bringing traffickers to justice.
The three suspects arecurrently in police custody and will be arraigned in court to face the law.
“A live animal is worth far more than any trophy. Wildlife sustains ecosystems, tourism and livelihoods for generations. Poaching destroys that future for short-term gain. Protect our heritage. Choose conservation over crime,” KWS added.
Elephant ivory is one of the most sought-after wildlife products globally, driven by illegal demand despite international bans.
In August 2025, one suspect was arrested in Migori County after being found in possession of seven elephant tusks.
The suspect was apprehended during a targeted crackdown on illegal wildlife trafficking, with the ivory haul believed to be part of a wider poaching network.
“The operation highlights the sustained efforts by security agencies to combat wildlife crime and protect endangered species, such as elephants, which continue to face threats from poaching and the illegal ivory trade,” the police said.
