UPDATE: Four Suspects Arrested As Investigation Into Suspected Poisoning Deaths Of 18 Elephants

Kenya’s multi-agency investigation into the deaths of 18 elephants in the Amboseli ecosystem has led to four arrests, while preliminary laboratory findings indicate that a toxic substance may have been involved.

According to a statement from Kenya’s Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, the first 15 elephant deaths were recorded between June 24th and July 24th, 2026, prompting the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), working alongside security, investigative and scientific agencies, to intensify its inquiries into the cause.

Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife Rebecca Miano stated:

“Preliminary laboratory results point to the probable involvement of a toxic substance, with earlier indications suggesting cyanide poisoning arising from the ingestion of pesticide-contaminated tomatoes sourced from farms adjacent to wildlife habitats. These findings remain subject to further scientific verification before the investigation is deemed complete.”

Miano also addressed progress in the investigation:

“Four suspects have been apprehended as persons of interest, and investigators are pursuing an additional individual believed to hold information relevant to the case.”

A search conducted in Tikondo, Kimana, within Loitoktok Sub-County led to the recovery of assorted substances, including chemicals believed to have been sourced from a neighbouring country. The potentially toxic and unlabelled materials have been secured for further scientific analysis.

The government cautioned that the arrests and recovered evidence do not establish criminal culpability while the investigation remains ongoing. Authorities said anyone ultimately established to have unlawfully killed, poisoned or harmed wildlife will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The government is also reinforcing measures to safeguard wildlife, including strengthening intelligence-led protection, surveillance, scientific investigation, law enforcement and rapid response in vulnerable areas, while enhancing monitoring of hazardous substances that could endanger wildlife, people and ecosystems.

Miano emphasized the government’s commitment to accountability:

“In the meantime, we shall pursue every credible line of inquiry in the Amboseli investigations, strengthen preventive and enforcement measures, and ensure that where sufficient evidence is established, those responsible are held accountable according to law.”