By Juma Mboko
Detectives in Kwale County have arrested three suspects in Kinango while in possession of a male pangolin.
Posing as businessmen in the illicit trade of the world’s most endangered insect eating mammal, the detectives, following a tip-off from the public, lured them from their hideouts before pouncing on them.
The suspects are Salim Nduria, Pas Mwiti and Kabwere Tembe aged between 22 and 30 years.
Pangolin, covered in overlapping scales, is highly prized for its meat and medicinal properties.
Drama ensued earlier in Vugurungani village after two of the suspects attempted to set the animal free and took flight prompting a chase by the officers who finally restrained them.
The three have been moved to DCI headquarters where they are being interrogated further as investigations continue.
The endangered animal has since been handed over to the Kenya Wildlife Service personnel at the Nairobi Animal Orphanage.
Reports indicate that pangolin scales are used for spiritual protection and financial rituals.
In Kenya, one such animal goes for approximately Sh4 million.
“Don’t go hunting for one, our men are on high alert,” the Directorate of Criminal Investigations warned Kenyans.
