Chinese smuggler re-arrested at JKIA

A Chinese fined Sh1 million for being in possession of ivory products was was on Wednesday re-arrested as he tried to fly out of the country.

Mr Zhang Chunsheng was arrested at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport following an order by the High Court stopping him from travelling outside the country until an appeal filed by Director of Public Prosecutions Keriako Tobiko challenging the “light” sentence is determined.

Mr Zhang was first arrested on January 28 at the JKIA while on his way to Guangzhou, China, from Lubumbashi in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

He was found in possession of three necklaces, two bracelets, 10 pendants and two rectangular blocks weighing 300 grammes valued at Sh58,000 without permit.

The items were made from ivory. He was charged on January 30 with being in possession of a wildlife trophy of an endangered species contrary to the new Wildlife Act, 2013 and an additional two counts of dealing and manufacturing items from ivory.

Mr Zhang pleaded guilty to all the charges and was fined Sh1 million or in default serve a five-year jail term. He paid the on February 3 and gained his freedom.

JUDGE ORDERS

However, the DPP appealed against the conviction on grounds that the sentence was not in conformity with the new Wildlife Act which prescribes a minimum fine of Sh1 million or five years in jail and a maximum life sentence and Sh20 million fine.

Mr Justice Mbogholi Msagha granted him interim orders barring Mr Zhang from leaving Kenya pending the hearing of the appeal.

WHAT THE LAW SAYS

Act is tough on offenders

Order: Those who refuse to comply with a wildlife protection order are fined Sh500,000 or jailed for three years.

Killing: Those who kill or mistreat an endangered species can be fined Sh20 million or life imprisonment.

Trafficking: Smuggling trophy can get you life in jail or Sh20 million fine.