In a significant victory against wildlife trafficking, Kenyan authorities on Sunday night arrested an Indonesian national aboard flight KQ 571 at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
The suspect, who was en-route to Jakarta International Airport in Indonesia from Bangui, Central African Republic, via Doha, Qatar, was apprehended for the illegal possession of ivory weighing 38.4 kilograms.
An estimated street value of the seized ivory is a staggering Ksh10 million.
The illicit cargo was uncovered by vigilant Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) security wardens stationed at Terminal 1 C.
KAA in an update on their social media pages say the discovery was made during the mandatory routine screening of passengers and their luggage at the facility.
The ivory, concealed in two separate bags, was in transit, destined for the Asian markets.
Upon the discovery, swift action was taken by the Kenya Airports Police Unit, leading to the prompt arrest of the suspect.
“The seized contraband was impounded by the Kenya Wildlife Service, dealing a substantial blow to the illegal ivory trade,” the Authority said.
“This successful operation was the result of a coordinated effort involving multiple agencies working in unison at the airport,” it added.
KAA noted that the incident highlights the effectiveness of security measures in place and the commitment of Kenyan authorities to combatting wildlife trafficking and preserving the nation’s natural heritage.
Wildlife conservation organizations have since praised the swift response, emphasizing the importance of such efforts in the ongoing battle against illegal wildlife trade on a global scale.
