By Renson Mnyamwezi
A suspected poacher was arrested after killing an elephant in the expansive Tsavo National Park.
The arrest came a day after Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS) rangers seized four suspects and recovered poisonous substances and two rifles loaded with 300 bullets in Laikipia County.
Taita police said KWS personnel on patrol arrested the suspect on Tuesday at Galana River in Tsavo East.
Taita OCPD Nathaniel Aseneka said KWS rangers recovered a G-3 rifle, a magazine and 16 bullets from the poacher.
Also recovered from the suspect were two tusks weighing 20 kilogrammes.
Mr Aseneka said the 27-year-old suspect was accosted by rangers on patrol in the night while armed and carrying the tusks.
Recently, suspected poachers shot dead two rangers on patrol at Sagala Ranch in Voi District and took away their rifles.
They also shot dead a scout and seriously injured another at Taita Ranch.
Tsavo Conservation Area Assistant Director Wilson Korir said poachers have invaded the area and were targeting elephants and rhinos.
“We’re calling on the public, especially those living along the forest and game reserves, to help KWS to stamp out poaching,” he said.
On Monday KWS officers gunned a poacher shortly after he killed a pregnant elephant in Mt Kenya East forest.
