Authorities in Kenya have arrested a Chinese national after more than 2,000 live queen ants were discovered hidden in his luggage at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
The suspect, identified as Zhang Kequn, was intercepted during a security check while attempting to board a flight to China.
Prosecutors told a Nairobi court that the insects were carefully concealed inside test tubes and tissue paper rolls placed in his luggage.
Thousands of ants discovered
Investigators say 1,948 ants were packed inside specialised test tubes, while another 300 were hidden in three rolls of tissue paper.
The ants belong to the species Messor cephalotes, which is protected under international biodiversity agreements and whose trade is strictly controlled.
Officials warn that removing the ants from the wild could harm ecosystems because the species plays an important role in maintaining soil health and biodiversity.
Possible wildlife trafficking network
The Kenya Wildlife Service says there has been growing demand for exotic ants in Europe and Asia, where collectors sometimes keep rare species as pets.
Investigators believe the suspect could be linked to a larger ant-trafficking network that authorities began dismantling in Kenya last year.
A court has granted prosecutors five days to detain the suspect while investigators examine his electronic devices and continue their inquiry. Officials say further arrests could follow as the investigation expands.
