Elephant tusks worth Sh2.2 million impounded during raid in Bomet

Stanley Kosgey (left) arrested with two elephant tusks. Bomet County Deputy Commissioner Josphat Mutisya (right) and Bomet DCIO Patrick Mwita (center) said he will be charged with being in possession of the tusks without a lisence. PHOTO: GILBERT KIMUTAI/STANDARD

BOMET: Police in Bomet County have impounded two elephant tusks worth Sh2.2 million and arrested one suspect at Silibwet Trading center in Bomet Central.

Confirming the incident, Bomet Central Deputy County Commissioner Josphat Mutisya said police acting on a tip off from members of the public in collaboration with Kenya Wildlife Service Rangers from Kericho bounced on the suspect and recovered the tusks weighing 2.5 kilograms.

Mutisya said two other suspects escaped arrest and were being pursued by police.

"A manhunt is on for two other suspects who escaped during the ambush at Silibwet and we will not sleep until we have them in custody and ensure that they face the law," said Mr Mutisya.

The Deputy County Commissioner said the suspect who is in custody will be charged with possession of wildlife trophy without a permit.

Mutisya who was accompanied by Bomet OCPD Abel Sande hailed the members of public for volunteering the information which led to the arrest of the suspect saying it was a good gesture in ensuring that wildlife in the country are protected.

He said poaching being illegal in the county there was no way anyone dealing with illegal trade that will affect the safety of wildlife in the country.

Mutisya said officers in Bomet which borders the Mau forest with numerous wildlife, will not cease to ensure that wildlife safety is secured.