Written By Lisa Murimi
In a significant operation on Wednesday, police in Molo, Nakuru County, arrested two suspects, including a police officer, for possession of rhino ivory and illegal firearms.Â
The officer, stationed at Central Police Station in Nakuru County, was apprehended alongside a bodaboda rider.
The duo was found with a CZ EVO 3 Scorpion Rifle, which the officer had allegedly sneaked out of the station’s armory without the knowledge of his superiors.
Molo Police Commander Timothy Odingo confirmed the arrest, stating that the operation was triggered by a public tip-off.
The suspects were intercepted while riding a motorcycle, carrying two black bags containing 30 bullets and five elephant tusks weighing approximately 10 kilograms.
The street value of the ivory is yet to be determined.
Commander Odingo emphasized that investigations are underway to uncover the origins and intended destination of the ivory.
The case has been handed over to the county Director of Criminal Investigations (DCIO) for further probing, with the suspects currently in police custody.
The incident has raised concerns about the involvement of law enforcement officers in illegal activities.
Poaching remains a significant threat to Kenya’s endangered rhino population, with the Wildlife Act strictly prohibiting ivory trade.
