In a significant victory in the fight against wildlife crime, the Kenya Wildlife Task Force (KWTF), in coordination with the Kenya National Police, has successfully secured the conviction and sentencing of two key players in an illegal sandalwood trafficking network. Agnes Nene Nasieku and Matua Mwanangi were each sentenced to seven (7) years in prison and fined 1.5 million KES (approximately $10,000 USD) for conspiracy to commit a felony and dealing in endangered wildlife products.
The convictions stem from “Operation Kiboko,” a major investigative effort launched on March 21, 2022. Acting on intelligence, officers from KWTF intercepted a vehicle in the Kijabe region of Kenya en route to the Uganda border. Inside, they discovered 10 sacks containing 538 kilograms of illegally harvested East African sandalwood (Osyris lanceolata)—a highly valued and protected species under Kenyan law.
Though Nasieku and Mwanangi were not present at the initial takedown, investigators were able to build a strong case against them using digital evidence and financial records obtained during the arrest of other individuals at the scene. Over the course of several weeks, forensic analysis of cell phones and banking transactions, coupled with witness statements, revealed the deeper structure of the trafficking operation and directly linked Nasieku and Mwanangi as the owner and supplier, respectively.
Nasieku was already known to KWTF, having been arrested the previous year by Kenya’s Transnational Organized Crime Unit for similar sandalwood-related violations.
On May 5, 2025, the Magistrate’s Court in Kahawa found both Nasieku and Mwanangi guilty. While a third suspect was acquitted, the conviction of these two key players sends a strong message: sandalwood trafficking will not be tolerated, and law enforcement is prepared to pursue perpetrators at every level of the supply chain.
Sandalwood Trafficking in Kenya
East African sandalwood is prized for its aromatic oils, used in perfumes, cosmetics, and traditional medicines. Its high market value—especially in Asia—has fueled a thriving black market. In Kenya, Osyris lanceolata is classified as a protected species under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act. Its harvest, possession, transport, and trade without proper authorization is illegal.
Despite its protected status, sandalwood is often illegally harvested in remote regions and trafficked across borders. Investigations like Operation Kiboko highlight the critical role of intelligence-driven enforcement and interagency collaboration in combating this transnational environmental crime.
A Model for Future Wildlife Crime Investigations
Focused Conservation applauds the tireless efforts of the Kenya Wildlife Task Force and its law enforcement partners. Operation Kiboko is a model of how strategic investigation, digital forensics, and interagency cooperation can dismantle trafficking networks—even when the key players are not caught in the act.
This case demonstrates that with persistence and skilled investigative work, justice can be served—and endangered species can be protected.
