By Burnett Munthali

A man identified as Rashid Peter from the village of Chief Kambwiri in Salima District has been arrested by police after being found in possession of elephant tusks. According to Police Spokesperson for the district, Rebecca Ndiwate, the arrest took place on January 8, 2025, following a tip-off from well-meaning members of the community.

Peter was reportedly selling the tusks at a local trading area in Katelera when he was apprehended. The public alerted the authorities after suspecting that Peter was involved in the illegal trade of wildlife products, which prompted a police investigation.

The suspect has been charged with illegal possession of wildlife products, and he is expected to appear in court soon to face the charges. This arrest highlights the ongoing efforts by local authorities to clamp down on the illegal wildlife trade, which continues to threaten wildlife populations in Malawi and beyond.

The police have reiterated their commitment to addressing wildlife crime, urging members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to wildlife poaching and trafficking.