In Kenya, a court has sentenced a Chinese citizen who attempted to illegally export live ants from the country. According to the ruling issued on April 15, Zhang Kechun must pay a fine of 1 million Kenyan shillings (about 7,746 dollars) and serve 12 months in prison. This was reported by CNN.
During the trial, it was noted that cases of ant smuggling in the country are increasing. Therefore, the judge stated that strict punishment is necessary to set an example for others.
According to official data, this illegal trade is mainly directed toward markets such as China. There, enthusiasts of exotic insects keep ants in special transparent containers called formicariums and observe their behavior.
Such colonies are highly valuable. It has been reported that each ant can be sold for up to 220 dollars.
Zhang Kechun was arrested in March at Nairobi International Airport. During inspection, more than 2,200 live ants were found in his luggage.
He initially denied the charges but later pleaded guilty. His lawyer stated that they would appeal the verdict.
Judge Irene Gichobi noted that this new form of bio-smuggling can cause serious environmental damage even through small creatures.
A Kenyan citizen, Charles Mwangi, is also suspected in connection with the case. He is currently free on bail.
Experts say that in recent years, smuggling has expanded beyond large animals like elephant ivory to include small creatures as well, creating a new level of ecological threat.
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