The Zambian Ministry of Tourism, through the country’s Department of National Parks and Wildlife, has arrested a suspect believed to be a notorious ivory trafficking kingpin.
The operation, which was carried out in the outskirts of Lusaka City, around the 6 Miles area, along the Great North Road, ended with five other conduits falling into the nets.
Members of the public are said to have reported some suspicious activities of a Congolese national believed to be involved in wildlife trafficking.
Officers from the Intelligence and Investigations Unit for the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DPNW) intercepted a silver-colored Toyota Quantum minibus, with registration number BAZ 6727 ZM.
At least, this is according to the press statement from Nelly Banda, the Principal Public Relations Officer in Zambia’s Ministry of Tourism.
The suspects were riding in the same vehicle which was also found to be loaded with pieces of elephant ivory weighing 528.8 kilograms.
They were 72 sawed pieces of tusks packed in 20 bags, all of which have been confiscated by authorities.
The DNPW Director, Dominic Chiinda said the milestone operation reflects Zambia’s strong stance against wildlife crime and the country’s commitment to the protection of endangered species such as elephants.
“This interception sends a clear message that Zambia is not a safe haven for wildlife criminals. We remain vigilant and steadfast in our mission to dismantle illegal wildlife trafficking networks. The collaboration between the public, law enforcement and conservation stakeholders are critical and we thank all those who played a role in this successful operation.”
The Ministry encourages members of the public to continue reporting suspicious activities and pledges its continued efforts to protect Zambia’s precious natural heritage.
Illegal dealing in wildlife products is a serious crime. Offenders will face the full force of the law.