THREE MOZAMBICAN NATIONALS ARRESTED FOR POSSESSING RAW IVORY
By Amina Tepani Daudi
Law enforcers at Namwera in Mangochi have arrested three Mozambican nationals on June 28, 2024, for possession of five pieces of elephant ivory at Namwera Trading Centre.
The suspects have been identified as Shoriano Juwao Bizwick, 31, Nelson Bala, 36, and Ziti Rajabu, 34, all from Nyerere village, Mandimba district in Mozambique.
Namwera Police detectives received a tip-off from the community that five Mozambicans were offering pieces of elephant ivory for sale at Namwera Trading Centre.
In collaboration with the Wildlife Crime Investigation Unit, the officers rushed to the scene and arrested the three suspects, who were found with five pieces of elephant ivory weighing 12 kg. The ivory was wrapped in a sack and carried on their motorcycle. However, the other two suspects managed to escape.
Investigations are underway to apprehend the fugitive suspects.
The trio is expected to appear in court next week to face charges of illegal possession of specimen of listed species without a license, contrary to section 110(b) of the National Parks and Wildlife Act.
Police expressed gratitude to the public for their continued support in combating wildlife crime in the district.
