- Kenya Defense Force (KDF) soldier Benard Omondi Sunga and two others were arrested with rhino horn worth KSh 2.9 million
- The suspects were caught during an intensive operation by the DCI, the police, and KWS officers in Rodi Market, where the horn was found in their car
- The arrests are part of Kenya's commitment to tackle wildlife trade and protect endangered species
Homabay—Benard Omondi Sunga, an officer of the Kenya Defense Forces (KDF), is among the three suspects arrested in Homa Bay Sub-County for possessing rhino horn worth approximately KSh 2.9 million.
Source: UGC
Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI), officers from Homa Bay Police Station, and Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) staff from Ruma National Park planned the arrest.
How were the Homa Bay suspects arrested?
According to KBC, the operation has been hailed as a major success in the ongoing war against wildlife trade.
Sunga, George Oloo, and Argwings Watta were arrested in Rodi Market during a carefully planned operation.
The suspects were caught in a black Toyota Kluger with registration numbers KBM 463G.
A thorough search of the car revealed a rhinoceros horn weighing 2.9 kg hidden inside.
The three were immediately arrested and have since been arraigned on charges of wildlife trafficking, a serious offense under Kenyan law that carries heavy penalties.
The public is encouraged to help stop the illegal wildlife trade
In a statement on X, the Directorate of Criminal Investigation praised the efforts of the KWS.
“This operation underscores our commitment to protecting Kenya's wildlife and bringing criminals to justice,” he praised.
The Kenya Wildlife Service supported the views of DCIand asking the public to cooperate in reporting wildlife-related crimes.
They emphasized the importance of protecting endangered animals such as rhinoceros, which are threatened by poaching and illegal trade.
Tanzanian citizens arrested with elephant tusks
The arrest comes a month after two Tanzanians were arrested in a coordinated effort between Mtwapa police officers and KWS officers from Mombasa.
The officers also found eleven elephant tusks weighing 32.924 kg worth KSh 3.3 million.
Wildlife trade continues to be a major challenge for Kenya, endangering the country's rich biodiversity and natural heritage.
The authorities have vowed to intensify their efforts in dismantling the criminal networks, while demanding attention and cooperation from all stakeholders.
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Source: TUKO.co.ke
