Four People Caught with Live Queen Ants Worth Over Ksh1 Million in Kenya
Two Belgians, a Vietnamese, and a Kenyan Plead Guilty in Rare Wildlife Trafficking Case
Four people — including two Belgian nationals, one Vietnamese citizen, and a Kenyan — have pleaded guilty to illegal possession and trading of live queen ants in Kenya.
The two Belgians were arrested on April 5, 2025, at a guesthouse in Lake View, Naivasha, Nakuru County. Authorities found them with about 5,000 live queen ants kept in 2,244 plastic tubes. The estimated black market value of the ants is Ksh1 million, according to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP).
They were charged with illegal trade in wildlife, a crime under Kenya’s Wildlife Conservation and Management Act.
Why Are Queen Ants So Valuable?
Queen ants are highly prized in the exotic pet trade. Depending on the species, prices can range from:
- Ksh200 to Ksh1,000 for common types
- Ksh1,500 to Ksh5,000 for rare species
- Ksh6,000 to Ksh15,000 for exotic or hard-to-find queens
Many collectors and ant hobbyists are willing to pay high prices for these ants, making them a target for illegal trade.
Two More Arrested in Nairobi with 400 Queen Ants
In a related case, a Vietnamese national and a Kenyan were caught with around 400 live queen ants, worth about Ksh200,000. The illegal activities happened between April 5 and 6, at a hotel in Nairobi’s central business district and an apartment in Syokimau.
All Four Suspects Plead Guilty in Court
All four suspects appeared before Senior Principal Magistrate Njeri Thuku at the JKIA Law Courts. They pleaded guilty to the charges.
The court postponed the case to April 15, 2025, to allow the prosecution to present more evidence and physical exhibits. Until then, the accused will stay in custody at the JKIA Police Station.
Wildlife Trafficking in Kenya: A Growing Problem
This case is one of many involving illegal wildlife trade in Kenya. The country has made promises to stop the trafficking of wildlife and animal products through its borders.
In the past:
- In 2018, a Vietnamese man was caught at JKIA with lion teeth, claws, and warthog teeth.
- In 2023, three suspects were charged with trying to export safari ants worth Ksh300,000 to France.
Final Thoughts
Kenya is cracking down on wildlife crime, especially illegal exports of rare species like queen ants. Authorities warn that anyone caught breaking the law will face serious consequences. As demand for exotic insects grows worldwide, conservationists say more needs to be done to protect the country’s unique wildlife.
Four People Caught with Live Queen Ants Worth Over Ksh1 Million in Kenya
