Suspect Arrested with Elephant Ivory in Tete Province

On February 19, 2026, authorities intercepted a suspect on a public road in the city of Tete, Tete Province, in connection with the illegal trafficking of wildlife products.

At the time of the stop, the individual was found in possession of two elephant ivory tusks with an estimated total weight of approximately 18 kilograms. The suspect indicated that he intended to sell the ivory.

During questioning, the individual admitted to killing the elephant in December 2025 inside Mágoè National Park. He also claimed that he has an additional 50 kilograms of ivory hidden at his farm, information that authorities are currently working to verify through follow-up operational investigations.

The two ivory tusks were immediately seized and the suspect was arrested without incident. He is currently being held at the Provincial Command of Tete, at the First Police Station in the city, where he remains in custody while legal proceedings and the criminal investigation continue.