Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) rangers in Tana River County intercepted 20 dik dik carcasses and 15 impala remains in Komorjila village, Tana North sub-county, during an operation targeting wildlife poaching and the illegal trade of wild meat. The seizure followed a tip-off from informants, leading to the discovery of a motorbike, weapons, and wildlife meat, though three suspects fled the scene. County Warden Bakari George confirmed that officers arrived at the site around 8 a.m. to find the motorbike loaded with the contraband, but the suspects escaped, leaving behind two machetes, two slashers, and 21 dik dik carcasses along with 20 dik dik heads and 12 impala carcasses. George emphasized that Tana River County has long been a hotspot for wildlife meat consumption, prompting sustained efforts to curb the practice. George warned residents against consuming wildlife meat, citing legal repercussions and health risks.
The county warden reiterated that possessing or transporting wildlife meat violates Kenyan law, with penalties including prosecution. He urged communities to collaborate with KWS to protect wildlife, which he described as a national resource.
George highlighted the dual threats of disease transmission and legal consequences, stating,
The operation underscores KWS's ongoing efforts to combat poaching in Tana River, a region historically linked to wildlife meat trade. The agency's actions align with broader conservation goals, while the warden's appeal for community engagement reflects the challenges of balancing human-wildlife coexistence in the area. KWS continues to monitor the region for further violations.