Police in Kinango, Kwale County, have arrested three men in possession of a male pangolin.
According to a statement by the DCI, the three; Pas Mwiti, Kabwere Tembe and Salim Nduria were pounced upon following a tip-off from the public.
The police posed as businessmen interested in buying the mammal, which fetches a fortune in the black market, but when two of the suspects realised it was a set-up they took to their heels.
A chase ensued but the duo was arrested and the animal was later handed over to KWS personnel at the Nairobi Animal Orphanage.
Pangolins are among the world's most trafficked mammals and they are mainly targeted for their scales which are believed to treat a variety of health conditions in traditional Chinese medicine.
Upon sensing danger pangolins usually curl into a ball, using their scales as a defense mechanism.
Their scales are made of keratin, the structural protein found in hair, skin and nails. Pangolin meat is also considered a delicacy in some countries and can go for roughly Sh15,000 per pound.
In some parts of Africa, the scales are used to treat back pain, rheumatism, epilepsy and mental illness.
Other communities also believe pangolins bring good luck and their limbs attract good fortune and money.
In Eastern Kenya, the scales and limbs are said to ward off witches and evil forces.
