The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has secured the conviction and sentencing of a man found in possession of elephant tusks in Tana River County, marking a significant victory in the fight against wildlife crime.

Ahmed Guyo Hiddi was sentenced to five years in prison or, in the alternative, pay a fine of KSh 3 million after the prosecution proved that he was unlawfully in possession of trophies from an endangered wildlife species without the requisite permit or exemption from the Director General of the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).

The court heard that on January 19, 2024, at Tarasaa Junction in Ngao Location, Tana River County, Hiddi was found in possession of two pieces of elephant tusks weighing approximately 3.8 kilograms and valued at KSh 380,000.

The case was heard at the Garsen Law Court, where the prosecution, led by Counsel Job Nyakundi, presented evidence linking the accused to the offence. Five witnesses, including an expert witness and the investigating officer, testified during the trial.

Following the conviction, the defence sought a non-custodial sentence, relying on medical documents and a pre-sentence report that recommended probation. However, the prosecution opposed the application, arguing that the medical records presented were outdated and that wildlife-related offences remain prevalent in the area.

The prosecution further urged the court to impose a deterrent sentence, emphasizing the need to protect endangered wildlife species and strengthen conservation efforts.

In her ruling, Magistrate Leah Wasige agreed with the prosecution’s submissions and sentenced the accused to five years’ imprisonment or a fine of KSh 3 million. He was subsequently committed to Malindi GK Prison.

The ODPP said the conviction demonstrates its continued commitment to combating wildlife crime and ensuring that offenders are held accountable for activities that threaten Kenya’s biodiversity and natural heritage.