Two men, Moriati Ole Kimore and Lepapa Saruni, have been sentenced to five years in prison each after being found guilty of trafficking four elephant tusks valued at Ksh. 2.49 million. The sentencing was handed down by Senior Principal Magistrate Hon. Njeri Thuku of the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) Law Courts, highlighting the Kenyan judiciary’s commitment to tackling wildlife crime and promoting conservation efforts.
The duo was arrested on August 28, 2024, in the Ntarara area of Kajiado South Sub-County, Kajiado County, while attempting to transport the illegal ivory on a motorcycle. Their capture followed a covert operation by the Serious Crimes Unit, part of a multi-agency task force formed to combat wildlife trafficking. The task force includes several national security agencies working collaboratively to track down and apprehend those involved in wildlife crimes.
The ivory, believed to have been sourced from elephants poached within Kenya’s borders, was seized during the operation, which is part of ongoing efforts to protect the country’s endangered wildlife. The illegal wildlife trade, which includes the trafficking of ivory, remains a major challenge in many African countries, threatening the survival of elephants and other endangered species.
The sentencing serves as a strong message to those engaged in wildlife trafficking that Kenya is resolute in its commitment to curbing illegal activities affecting its natural heritage. The ruling is also a testament to the effectiveness of multi-agency cooperation in addressing complex crimes like wildlife trafficking.
Following the sentencing, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) expressed its satisfaction with the verdict and reiterated its commitment to ensuring that wildlife crimes are met with swift and severe legal consequences. The ODPP further urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to wildlife crimes, as Kenya continues to battle the growing menace of poaching and trafficking.
