Three arrested in possession of pangolin, world's most trafficked mammal

Three men were arrested in possession of a male pangolin. Police in Kinango, Kwale County, have arrested three men in possession of a male pangolin. According to a statement by the DCI, the three; Pas Mwiti, Kabwere Tembe and Salim Nduria were pounced upon following a tip-off from the public. The police posed as businessmen interested in buying the mammal, which fetches a fortune in the black market, but when two of the suspects realised it was a set-up they took to their heels. A chase ensued but the duo was arrested and the animal was later handed over to KWS personnel at the Nairobi Animal Orphanage. Pangolins are among the world's most trafficked mammals and they are mainly targeted for their scales which are believed to treat a variety of health conditions in traditional Chinese medicine. Upon sensing danger pangolins usually curl into a ball, using their scales as a defense mechanism. Their scales are made of keratin, the structural protein found in hair, skin and nails. Pangolin meat is also considered a delicacy in some countries and can go for roughly Sh15,000 per pound. In some parts of Africa, the scales are used to treat back pain, rheumatism, epilepsy and mental illness. A pangolin Other communities also believe pangolins bring good luck and their limbs attract good fortune and money. In Eastern Kenya, the scales and limbs are said to ward off witches and evil forces.

Three arrested in possession of pangolin, world's most trafficked mammal

Related Topics

Popular this week

Latest Stories

The Standard Insider

Digger Classified

GET OUR NEWSLETTER

CONNECT WITH US

FOR THE LATEST JOB ADVERTS

DIGGER JOBS

Digger Motors

Digger Real Estate

Three arrested in possession of pangolin, world's most trafficked mammal

Related Topics

Trending Now

Popular this week

Latest Stories

The Standard Insider

Digger Classified

GET OUR NEWSLETTER

CONNECT WITH US

FOR THE LATEST JOB ADVERTS