In a significant incident at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, a Chinese national named Zhang Kequn was arrested for attempting to smuggle live queen ants. This event marks a continuation of a troubling trend in Kenya, where the smuggling of insects has been on the rise, indicating a shift in biopiracy from larger animals to smaller, yet ecologically critical species.

Details of the Arrest

Zhang was found in possession of 2,238 live garden ants, including 1,948 packed in test tubes and 300 concealed in tissue paper. The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) is currently investigating this case as part of a larger probe into insect smuggling, which has gained traction among enthusiasts in Europe and Asia willing to pay high prices for these insects.

Previous Incidents

This is not the first time such an incident has occurred in Kenya. Last year, four men were sentenced to one year in prison or fined $7,700 for attempting to smuggle thousands of live queen ants. The ants seized during that operation were identified as giant African harvester ants, species that play an important role in their ecosystems.

The KWS has emphasized the ecological importance of these ants, noting that their smuggling poses a risk to local biodiversity. The average value of each giant African harvester ant is approximately £175 ($233), highlighting the lucrative nature of this illicit trade.

Connections to a Broader Trend

The smuggling of ants is part of a growing trend in Kenya, where the focus has shifted from iconic large mammals to lesser-known species. The KWS described last year’s ruling against the four men as a ‘landmark case’, suggesting a significant shift in how wildlife crimes are prosecuted.

International Context

Interestingly, on the same day as Zhang’s arrest, a similar shipment of ants was seized in Bangkok, indicating that this issue is not confined to Kenya alone. The international nature of this trade raises questions about the enforcement of wildlife protection laws across borders.

Current Status and Future Implications

As investigations continue, the case serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by authorities in combating wildlife crime. The KWS has noted that smuggling ants has become a lucrative but illicit business, with serious implications for conservation efforts. The case signals a landmark shift in biopiracy trends, emphasizing the need for increased vigilance and enforcement to protect these vital species.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of Zhang’s operations and any potential connections to larger smuggling networks. The ongoing investigations will likely shed more light on the intricate web of wildlife trafficking that threatens both local ecosystems and international biodiversity.

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The family of British businessman Harry Roy Veevers has been embroiled in a complex legal situation in Mombasa. For years, Veevers’ body has been held at the Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital mortuary, preserved at the request of investigative authorities due to a prolonged state inquest. This situation has placed a significant financial burden on his family, who are now seeking a waiver of a Sh2.6 million mortuary bill.

Recent Developments

As of August 12, 2025, the inquest proceedings concerning Veevers concluded, marking a decisive moment in this long-standing case. Following the conclusion of the inquest, the family has formally requested intervention from legal representatives to facilitate a waiver of the accrued mortuary fees. They aim to secure the immediate release of Veevers’ remains for final rites and reburial, a process that has been delayed for years.

Impact on the Family

The ongoing situation has had profound emotional and financial effects on Veevers’ family. The lengthy investigation and the associated costs have compounded their grief, as they have been unable to lay their loved one to rest. The family’s lawyers have emphasized the urgency of their request, stating, “We hereby formally request your intervention to liaise with the hospital management to facilitate a full waiver of the accrued mortuary fees and authorise the immediate release of the remains to our clients for final rites and reburial.” This plea underscores the family’s desire for closure.

Energy Development in Mombasa

In contrast to the personal struggles surrounding Veevers’ case, Mombasa is also witnessing significant developments in the energy sector. The Kenyan government has announced plans to develop a $2.9 billion gas-fired power plant near Mombasa Port. This project is expected to have a generation capacity of 1,200 megawatts, aimed at improving electricity production and addressing the increasing electricity demand in Kenya.

Broader Implications

The gas-fired power plant is part of Kenya’s broader efforts to expand its power generation capacity. As the country strives for a 100% clean power grid by 2030, it is treating liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a transition fuel. This initiative reflects a significant shift in energy policy, aiming to balance immediate energy needs with long-term sustainability goals.

Expert Perspectives

Experts in the energy sector have noted that the development of the gas-fired power plant could play a crucial role in stabilizing Kenya’s electricity supply. The project is expected to attract investment and create jobs, contributing to the local economy. However, it also raises questions about the environmental impact and the long-term viability of relying on fossil fuels during the transition to cleaner energy sources.

As Mombasa navigates these contrasting narratives—one of personal tragedy and the other of ambitious energy development—the outcomes of both situations remain to be seen. The family of Harry Roy Veevers continues to seek closure, while the Kenyan government pushes forward with plans that could reshape the region’s energy landscape. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the timeline for the power plant’s construction and the final resolution of Veevers’ case.

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