Kenyan police seize Bangkok-bound raw ivory worth 64,000 USD

Kenyan security officers have seized raw ivory worth 64,000 U.S. dollars at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi.

Airports CID commander Joseph Ngisa said on Wednesday the consignment which was disguised as gemstones was destined for Thailand from Mozambique when it was seized during the screening stage.

"We seized the consignment which was disguised as gemstones on Tuesday night. It had 18 pieces of raw ivory valued at 6.4 million shillings (64,000 dollars), which we discovered at the screening centre," Ngisa told Xinhua by telephone.

"The transit cargo was from Maputo, Mozambique and destined for Bangkok, Thailand. We have launched investigations to trace its source with a view to arresting the suspect. So far, no arrest has been made," Ngisa added.

He said they have liaised with their counterparts in Maputo who are pursuing the case and would take necessary action on the suspects.

The incident came after Kenya Airways announced it has signed a declaration aimed at preventing wildlife trafficking to help wipe out poaching which is rampant in Africa.

The initiative aims to support efforts to prevent the growing trade in illegal wildlife and products around the world to ensure that illegal products, including ivory, do not move through transportation organizations.

The latest seizure came in the wake of a surge in wildlife poaching across Africa with elephants and rhinos among the worst hit.

It also comes as Kenya is preparing to burn the largest ivory stockpile of 120 tonnes in April during a summit involving African leaders, conservation experts, philanthropists and corporate leaders to show Kenya's commitment to fight poaching and illegal ivory trade. Endit