Live Snake Seized at Namanga Border as Police Arrest Bus Crew in Kajiado Crackdown

The discovery was made on Wednesday during a routine inspection of cargo on a bus travelling from Tanzania. The incident has raised concerns about possible wildlife smuggling attempts at one of Kenya’s busy entry points with its southern neighbour.

The snake was found aboard a Kidia One Express bus that had originated from Dar es Salaam. Customs officers, working together with the Kenya Police Service, became suspicious of the cargo and carried out a thorough search. Inside the wooden box they discovered the live snake carefully concealed. The driver and the conductor of the bus were immediately arrested and are now being held at Namanga Police Station, where they are expected to face charges in court soon.

The Officer Commanding Police Division (OCPD) for Oloilalei Namanga, Julius Munyagia, confirmed the seizure and said investigations are ongoing. Authorities believe this was part of a smuggling operation, and they are now actively looking for the main suspect who was reportedly waiting inside Kenya to receive the unusual cargo. The OCPD appealed for anyone with information that could help trace the intended recipient to come forward and assist the police.

This latest incident forms part of a wider crackdown on smuggling and illegal activities along the border in Kajiado County. Namanga serves as a major crossing point for goods and people between Kenya and Tanzania, and security teams have stepped up checks to prevent the movement of contraband, including wildlife products. Officials have warned that such attempts not only break the law but can also pose serious risks to public safety and the environment. The case continues to be investigated as police work to understand the full motive behind hiding the live snake in the bus.