4 persons of interest arrested with 38.6 kg of suspected game meat in Laikipia

Four individuals have been apprehended in Laikipia County following a joint security operation that discovered them in possession of 38.6 kilograms of suspected game meat. The National Police Service (NPS) announced the arrests on Saturday, October 17, 2026, stating that the suspects were identified during an operation led by officers from Matanya Police Station in cooperation with other security agencies.

The arrested individuals were reported to be from the Weru-ine, Matanya Centre, Waguthiru and Mitero regions of Laikipia County. They are currently in police custody awaiting court proceedings. The NPS did not disclose the type of game meat or the origin of the acquisition but emphasized the illegal nature of the contraband and the severe penalties associated with poaching and illegal wildlife trade.

The National Police Service also cautioned the public against the possession, trade, and consumption of game meat, stressing that these activities are illegal under Kenyan law and pose risks to wildlife conservation. They urged citizens to report any suspicious activities related to poaching or wildlife trafficking to the nearest police station.

This incident is part of ongoing efforts by wildlife authorities and security forces to curb poaching and the illegal trade of wildlife products, which is prohibited under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act. The law prohibits the killing, possession, or trading of wildlife or wildlife products without a valid permit or license.

Additionally, authorities have warned that consuming uninspected game meat can lead to the transmission of zoonotic diseases from animals to humans, highlighting the health risks associated with such practices.