Zambia has seized 471.8 kg of illegally mined ivory as part of its fight against wildlife crime, according to a press release from the Ministry of Tourism published on March 19.
Zambian law enforcement conducted an operation based on a tip from local residents in the capital, Lusaka, arresting two suspects. They were found with 95 pieces of ivory obtained from various parts of the country through illegal channels.
"Acting on information received from vigilant citizens, police officers ... intercepted a large consignment of illegal [mined] ivory in Lusaka, dealing a significant blow to criminal syndicates threatening Zambia's natural heritage," the ministry stated.
During the investigation, police arrested six suspects believed to be involved in the illegal ivory trade network, all of whom will appear in court.
"All six suspects have been jointly charged with unlawful possession of a legally prescribed trophy, namely ivory ... The suspects remain in custody and are expected to appear in court," the release stated.
Earlier in March, a Chinese citizen was detained at Nairobi Airport, Kenya's capital, attempting to smuggle over 2,200 live ants in their luggage.
