This archive report was first published on 29 June 2019.
On June 27, 2019, Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) security teams, in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, conducted an operation at the popular Burma Market in Nairobi's Eastland area.
During the operation, they recovered 800 kilogrammes of bush meat that was being sold to unsuspecting customers as beef.
The bush meat was recovered following two poaching incidents that took place at Olturoto in Kajiado County and Portland Farm next to Game Ranch in Athi River, Machakos County on June 26, 2019, where two zebras were poached.
The suspects involved in the poaching incidents were pursued by KWS teams in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, leading to the arrest of 15 individuals who were arraigned before a Kibera Law court.
The suspects face charges of dealing, and being in possession of bushmeat and selling uninspected meat among other charges.
Buying and selling bush meat is illegal and anyone arrested faces a jail term of not less than three years without an option of a fine.
Consumption of bushmeat is also a public health risk since the meat is not inspected, and zoonotic diseases such as Ebola and anthrax are linked to wild animals.
KWS warns the public against buying meat from suspicious outlets operating without licenses and calls upon relevant authorities to ensure that meat outlets are regularly inspected and licensed as per existing laws and regulations.
The public is being urged to report suspected cases of poaching or bush meat to the KWS 24 hour toll-free number, 0800 597 000.
