.Mombasa, Kenya – August 5, 2025
Two Burundian nationals were arraigned before a Mombasa court on Monday over charges of illegal possession and attempted sale of elephant tusks, violating Kenya’s stringent wildlife protection laws.
Arrested in Miritini During Wildlife Trophies Operation
The suspects, Gakiza Sulemani and Nkunubumwe Celecius, were apprehended in Miritini, Mombasa County, on August 3, 2025, during an intelligence-led sting operation by Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) officers. According to KWS, the accused were allegedly scouting for potential buyers of the ivory.
They were found in possession of 27 elephant tusks, weighing approximately 62.85 kilograms, with a market value of Ksh12,570,000. These tusks, classified as trophies from endangered species, are protected under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, 2013, which criminalizes possession or trade without legal authorization.
“The two were arrested while attempting to sell the tusks, a clear violation of both national and international wildlife protection laws,” said a source within KWS.
Serious Charges Under Kenya’s Wildlife Laws
Before Senior Resident Magistrate David Odhiambo, the accused faced two counts:
- Dealing in wildlife trophies without a permit.
- Possession of trophies from endangered species, contrary to Section 92(4) of the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, 2013 (Amended).
If convicted, the duo could face stiff penalties, including hefty fines or long prison sentences, in line with Kenya’s zero-tolerance approach to wildlife crimes.
Strict Bond Conditions Sought
Principal Prosecution Counsel Barbara Sombo requested the court to impose strict bond terms to guarantee the continued availability of the suspects throughout the trial process. The prosecution emphasized the seriousness of the crime and the risk of flight given the suspects’ foreign nationality.
Both Sulemani and Celecius pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Kenya’s Ongoing War Against Illegal Ivory Trade
Kenya remains a key battleground in Africa’s war on ivory trafficking, with several seizures made in recent years. According to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), elephant tusks are often trafficked across borders.
This is due to the high demand in international black markets, particularly in parts of Asia.
This case is the latest in a string of high-profile wildlife trafficking arrests.
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