Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested two Tanzanians in Mtwapa, Mombasa over involvement in illegal ivory trade. 

In a statement on Monday November 11, 2024, the DCI reported that 11 elephant tusks weighing 32.9Kgs, worth Ksh3.3 million were recovered during the incident. 

“In a well-coordinated operation, police officers based at Mtwapa Police Station and officers from Kenya Wildlife Service Mombasa, have deftly netted two Tanzanian nationals for their involvement in the illegal trade of ivory. The sweep proved fruitful as they successfully recovered elephant tusks, valued at Sh3,300,000,” read part of the DCI statement.

Acting on a tip-off, the officers pounced on Paul Kuya, 36, and Paul Telek, 29, at their hideout in Majengo area of Mtwapa where they uncovered eleven elephant tusks, weighing 32.924 kilogrammes, cleverly concealed in nylon sacks within three different bags.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the smugglers had journeyed from Tanzania to Kenya via the Namanga border, their sights set on finding potential buyers to purchase their illicit haul. 

The two suspects are being held at Mtwapa Police Station, as officers prepare to arraign them in court. 

Meanwhile, the seized elephant tusks are safely stored as exhibits.