Austine Hlupani Sibanda (60) and Ellmone Nkomo (49) have landed themselves in trouble with the law, as they have been apprehended for the ill3gal possession of ivory in Entubane Surburb, Bulawayo.
The unlawful trade and possession of ivory, which is derived from the tusks of elephants is a serious crime that poses a significant threat to the dwindling elephant population in Zimbabwe.
After receiving a tip-off, detectives from the Criminal Investigation Department’s Minerals, Flora and Fauna Unit (MFFU) successfully executed a covert operation to apprehend Austine and Ellmone .
The officers, acting on the information, positioned themselves near a bush where the suspects were spotted standing.
Upon initiating the search, the detectives were able to uncover two pieces of ivory, which were later appraised at US$3 697.50.
The successful recovery of the valuable ivory represents a significant triumph for the MFFU detectives in their ongoing b@ttle against wildlife crime.
Newsreportzim.com has qouted the statement released by ZRP and it follows :
Police in Bulawayo arrested Austine Hlupani Sibanda (60) and Ellmone Nkomo (49) in connection with a case of unlawful possession of ivory which occurred in Entubane Surburb, Bulawayo. Detectives from CID MFFU acted on received information and intercepted the suspects who were standing near a bush and conducted a search which led to the recovery of two pieces of ivory valued at US$3 697.50.
The !llegal ivory trade represents one of the most significant thr3ats to elephant populations worldwide, contributing to the decline of these majestic animals and the destabilization of ecosystems.
Efforts to combat the !llegal ivory trade have seen varying degrees of success, with law enforcement agencies and conservationists calling for stronger legislation, enhanced monitoring, and increased public awareness to stem the flow of ill3gal ivory.
SOURCE : NEWSREPORTZIM.COM
