This archive report was first published on 13 September 2019.
On June 29 and 30, 2011, Hussein Warsame, a former Kenya Wildlife Services employee turned poacher, committed a heinous crime that would change his life forever. He was convicted by Nanyuki Principal Magistrate Njeri Thuku of killing a rhino and stealing its two horns worth Sh5 million at Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia County.
According to the prosecution, Warsame was dismissed from KWS in July 2009 after he deserted his work station at Tsavo East National Park. The two-year trial saw 10 witnesses testify and link the accused to the crime. Ibrahim Mugambi, an employee of Ol Pejeta, testified that he and his colleague heard gunshots at 3am and found a dead buffalo and rhino with gunshot wounds and missing horns at 5am.
During the sentencing, Warsame remained silent and shook his head when asked to defend and mitigate, stating he had nothing to say. The magistrate noted that poaching is a serious crime that threatens Kenya's wildlife, a major tourist attraction.
On September 13, 2019, The Standard reported on this case, highlighting the severity of the crime and the consequences of poaching.
