Nine arrested for illegal ivory
2008-03-31 16:17
Lusaka - Zambian authorities have arrested nine Chinese nationals after they were found in illegal possession of products made from ivory, an official said on Monday.
Zambia Wildlife Authority (Zawa) said the nine Chinese nationals were arrested on separate days last week after they conducted a search on a Chinese-owned factory in the capital Lusaka.
"I wish to warn the public, especially Chinese nationals, that Zambia is not allowed to trade in ivory. Trade is restricted whether for raw or processed ivory," said Zawa spokesperson Wilfred Moonga.
He said the Chinese nationals were found in possession of 42 ivory chop sticks, 19 bracelets, 22 necklaces and some vases.
The nine Chinese nationals, whom he did not identify, will appear in court soon.
Zambia has been struggling to stop illegal poaching in most of its game parks, where elephants and rhinos have been targets for ivory.
- AFP