Two Belgian teenagers were arrested in Kenya for attempting to smuggle 5,000 ants, reflecting a worrying trend in wildlife trafficking away from large mammals to lesser-known species. The teens claimed ignorance of the law regarding the collection of the ants, which originated from East Africa, and were charged alongside two others involved in a similar case. Kenyan authorities emphasized that such illegal activities threaten biodiversity and local communities' economic interests, underlining the urgent need for wildlife protection and conservation efforts.
"The illegal export of the ants not only undermines Kenya's sovereign rights over its biodiversity but also deprives local communities and research institutions of potential ecological and economic benefits."
"This case highlights a shift in trafficking trends—from iconic large mammals to lesser-known yet ecologically critical species, indicating a growing concern for biodiversity conservation."
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