The accused were released on a cash bail of Sh500,000 each or an alternative bond of Sh2 million each. The case is set for mention on October 2, 2024.

During the operation, three other individuals, who were with the suspect, managed to escape, leaving behind the seized ivory.

The environment ministry said 499 of the thick-skinned herbivores were killed in 2023, mostly in state-run parks.