Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 13th April 2025
Lusaka, Zambia.
In a decisive breakthrough against transnational wildlife crime, the Ministry of Tourism, through the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW), has successfully dismantled a major ivory trafficking operation in Lusaka.
Acting on actionable intelligence, officers from the DNPW’s Intelligence and Investigations Unit apprehended a Congolese national—believed to be a key figure in the illegal ivory trade—alongside five accomplices during a high-risk operation in the 6 Miles area along the Great North Road at approximately 12:30 hours today.
The operation, initiated following public tip-offs, led to the interception of a silver Toyota Quantum Hiace minibus, registration number BAZ 6727 ZM. A thorough search uncovered a staggering 528.8 kilograms of elephant ivory, meticulously packed into 72 pieces and concealed within 20 sack bags. The scale of the seizure underscores the gravity of the illicit trade threatening Zambia’s wildlife heritage.
Commenting on this significant success, Mr. Dominic Chiinda, Director of DNPW, remarked: “This operation is a clear demonstration of Zambia’s unwavering resolve to combat wildlife crime. We are sending an unequivocal message: Zambia will not tolerate the plundering of its natural treasures. Our gratitude extends to the vigilant members of the public and all partners in conservation who contributed to this achievement.”
The six individuals involved are expected to face charges under the Wildlife Act No. 14 of 2015, including:
Section 127 (1)(a)(b), (2)(a)(b): Hunting or dealing with elephants or rhinoceros.
Section 130 (1)(2) read with Section 87 (4): Unlawful possession of a prescribed trophy.
The Ministry of Tourism reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding Zambia’s biodiversity and calls upon the public to continue supporting anti-poaching efforts by reporting suspicious activities. Wildlife crime is a serious offence, and perpetrators will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
The Agency Media