Police, KWS seize five tonnes of sandalwood worth millions in Samburu
The illegal sandalwood trade, often conducted through illicit logging operations, contributes significantly to deforestation and wildlife trafficking, in violation of both national and international conservation laws.
In a joint operation, police officers from Wamba Police Station and Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) officers seized approximately five tonnes of suspected sandalwood in Ntunyus Village, Samburu County.
The operation followed intelligence reports on the ongoing illegal trade in sandalwood in the area.
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Sandalwood, a highly valued tree known for its aromatic heartwood, is illegal to harvest or trade in Kenya due to its endangered status. Overexploitation of the tree has led to its rapid depletion in the wild, threatening both local ecosystems and the livelihoods of communities that depend on them.
The illegal sandalwood trade, often conducted through illicit logging operations, contributes significantly to deforestation and wildlife trafficking, in violation of both national and international conservation laws.
According to the National Police Service, the team acted on a tip-off and proceeded to the location, where they discovered a lorry with false number plates parked at a homestead.
“Upon inspection, the lorry was found to be fully loaded with pieces of wood suspected to be sandalwood,” police said.
The lorry was impounded and towed to Wamba Police Station. (KWS)
They further revealed that the owner of the homestead informed officers that the driver and suspected dealer had fled upon seeing the approaching police vehicles.
“The lorry was impounded and towed to Wamba Police Station. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the suspects and further investigate the case,” reads a police report.
This operation underscores the Government’s commitment to tackling illegal logging and wildlife trafficking in Kenya.
It is paramount that authorities continue to prioritise the protection of the country’s natural resources and the enforcement of conservation laws to ensure the preservation of species such as sandalwood for future generations.
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