Police have arrested four suspects after recovering 38.6 kilogrammes of suspected game meat during a multi-agency security operation in Laikipia County.
The suspects were apprehended on Saturday, October 17, 2026, in an intelligence-led operation conducted by officers from Matanya Police Station in collaboration with other security agencies.
According to the National Police Service, the four were arrested in separate areas within Laikipia County, including Weru-ine, Matanya Centre, Waguthiru and Mitero.
The suspects were allegedly found in possession of the game meat, which authorities believe is linked to activities prohibited under Kenya’s wildlife conservation laws.
They were taken into custody and are being held pending processing and arraignment in court.
The police have not disclosed the specific wildlife species from which the recovered meat originated or whether the suspects are suspected of involvement in a wider poaching network.
The operation comes amid continued efforts by security agencies to combat poaching and the illegal possession and trade of wildlife products, activities that threaten the country's wildlife populations and undermine conservation initiatives.
In a statement, the National Police Service warned members of the public against possessing, trading in or consuming game meat, noting that such activities are prohibited under Kenyan law.
The service further cautioned that poaching and dealing in wildlife products could attract severe legal penalties, urging residents to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in protecting the country's wildlife heritage.
Authorities have called on members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, including suspected poaching and the illegal transportation or sale of wildlife products.
Residents have been encouraged to report such incidents at the nearest police station or through the National Police Service emergency numbers, 999 and 911.
Members of the public can also share information with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations through the toll-free number 0800 722 203 under the #FichuaKwaDCI initiative, or via WhatsApp on 0709 570 000.
The arrests are expected to inform further investigations into the circumstances surrounding the possession of the 38.6 kilogrammes of game meat and whether other individuals may have been involved.
