A 38 year-old man has been arrested in Kasungu for allegedly being found in possession of eight pieces of ivory weighing 32 kilograms.
Kasungu Police spokesperson Inspector Harry Namwaza has identified the suspect as Saidi Phiri.
“National Parks and Wildlife officers received a tip that some people were offering ivory for sale. The officers followed up the tip and disguised themselves as potential buyers. The sell was to take place at Nthunduwala in the district,” said Namwaza.
Police say the officers managed to arrest Phiri while two Zambian nationals who were with him escaped arrest.
Meanwhile, police have launched a manhunt to arrest the other two suspects.
Saidi Phiri comes from Kamera village, Traditional authority Mavwere in Mchinji district.