Two Belgians Fined KSh 1M Each for Smuggling Exotic Ants in Kenya
Kenyan court fines two Belgian nationals KSh 1 million each or one year in prison after pleading guilty to smuggling ants in a sophisticated wildlife trafficking operation.
Belgians Fined for Smuggling Exotic Ants
A Kenyan court has slapped two Belgian nationals, Lornoy David and Seppe Lodewijckx, with a fine of KSh 1 million each or a 12-month jail term after they pleaded guilty to smuggling exotic ants into the country.
Four Arrested in Intelligence-Led Operation
The two Belgians were arrested alongside a Vietnamese and a Kenyan national during a coordinated, intelligence-led operation, according to the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). Authorities say the suspects attempted to illegally traffic the insects through Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
Ants Hidden in Modified Containers
The insects were found concealed in specially modified test tubes and syringes, designed to keep the ants alive for up to two months. The KWS reported that there was a calculated attempt to bypass security systems by obscuring the contents of the tubes to avoid detection.
Scale of Trafficking Revealed
Photographs shared by KWS show hundreds of containers padded with cotton wool, each holding two to three ants. The meticulous packaging indicates a well-organized trafficking attempt aimed at smuggling live insects out of the country.
KWS Warning on Wildlife Trafficking
The Kenya Wildlife Service has reiterated its commitment to cracking down on illegal wildlife trade, calling for heightened awareness and vigilance at all entry and exit points. Authorities are now investigating the intended destination and possible network behind the smuggling plot.
