Police seize 12 tonnes of sandalwood in Samburu, Kenya

Police in Wamba have seized a lorry transporting 12 tonnes of sandalwood of unknown value at Ngilai area in Samburu East sub-county.

Samburu East OCPD Samuel Muthamia said the endangered species had been cut into smaller pieces and concealed under manure that had also been packed in the lorry.

He accused residents of collaborating with unscrupulous businessmen to illegally cut down the species for commercial purposes.

"This illegal business is common in the region. We have arrested a number of people and charged them in court for transporting or being in possession of the endangered species illegally," said Muthamia, who has now urged Kenya Wildlife Service, Community Conservancies and residents to cooperate with police in fighting the vice.

The driver and two passengers will be charged in Maralal court.