Ivory Trafficker Caught in Pemba with 28 Kilograms of Tusks

At approximately 6:00 a.m. on May 20, 2025, the authorities in Pemba received credible intelligence regarding a citizen from Nampula Province who was allegedly transporting ivory tusks for commercial purposes.

In coordination with the 4th Police Precinct of the PRM in Pemba City, authorities launched a targeted raid in the Chuíba and Metula neighborhoods. The operation led to the arrest of a 60-year-old man, a native of Pemba and resident of Chuíba, who was found in possession of 12 ivory tusks weighing a total of 28 kilograms. The tusks were stored in a sack at a private residence.

The ivory had been hidden at the home of another Mozambican national — a civil servant employed by the District Administration of Quissanga — who is also a native and resident of Chuíba. The suspect had been temporarily staying at her home.

When questioned about the origin of the ivory, the suspect claimed to have acquired the tusks from a man originally from Olumbua, in the Mucojo Administrative Post, Macomia District, Cabo Delgado Province. This individual currently resides in Rapale District and is reportedly employed as a health worker in Larde District, Nampula Province.

Actions Taken:

• The suspect was detained and placed in custody at the 2nd Police Precinct of the PRM.

• A formal case file was opened.

• The ivory tusks were seized and transferred to the District Prosecutor’s Office in Pemba for legal proceedings.

This case highlights the growing role of interprovincial trafficking routes in Mozambique and the involvement of individuals with public sector ties. Investigations are ongoing to identify all actors linked to this illegal trade.