The JKIA Court has fined four suspects, including three foreigners and one Kenyan, Ksh 1 million each for attempting to smuggle over 5,000 queen ants valued at more than Ksh 1 million.
The suspects-Belgian nationals David Lornoy and Seppe Lodewijckx, Vietnamese national Duh Hung Nguyen, and Kenyan Dennis Nganga-were arrested at a guesthouse near Lake Naivasha and at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) where they intended to export the ants illegally.
The four pleaded guilty to charges of illegal possession and attempted trafficking of wildlife, specifically queen ants from the giant African harvester species.
The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), which led the investigation, stated that the suspects had no legal permits to collect or export the ants, violating Kenya’s wildlife protection laws.
The court, presided over by Magistrate Anjela Njeri Thuku, gave the suspects the option to pay the fine or serve a one-year jail term. The ruling underscores Kenya’s firm stance against wildlife trafficking, including lesser-known species whose illegal trade poses ecological risks.
In court, the Belgian teenagers admitted guilt but claimed ignorance of the law, describing their actions as a “stupid mistake” and pleading for leniency.
They expressed remorse and a desire to return home. However, the court emphasized the seriousness of the offense and the importance of protecting Kenya’s biodiversity.
Experts have highlighted the growing underground trade in queen ants, which are highly prized by exotic pet collectors in Europe and Asia.
Each queen ant can fetch significant sums, with some valued at over $200(ksh 25,830 apx) individually. The ants are smuggled in specially designed containers to survive long transit periods, making the trade lucrative yet harmful to local ecosystems.
This case marks a significant milestone in Kenya’s fight against biopiracy, signaling a shift in trafficking trends from iconic wildlife products to smaller but ecologically critical species. The Kenya Wildlife Service continues to intensify efforts to curb such illegal activities and protect the country’s natural heritage.
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