Detectives in Mwingi West Constituency have intercepted a trailer transporting 16 tonnes of skins believed to be from donkeys, in a major crackdown that comes just days after Kitui County marked World Donkey Day 2026 in Nguutani.
The trailer was seized by police officers at Kanyonyoo and escorted to Nguutani Police Station, where it is currently being held as investigations intensify. Preliminary reports indicate the consignment contains more than 3,000 donkey skins, raising alarm over the resurgence of illegal donkey slaughter and the banned donkey hide trade.
Confirming the incident to Channel 15 News, Mwingi West Sub-County Commissioner Ms Rukia Chitechi said authorities are moving with speed to establish the origin, ownership, and intended destination of the skins.
The driver and his assistant have been arrested and are assisting police with investigations.
The development has sparked fresh concern among residents, with claims that a network involving foreign nationals could be behind illegal donkey slaughter operations in the area. Allegations of an unlicensed donkey slaughterhouse in Nguutani remain under active investigation.
The incident comes barely a week after stakeholders gathered in the same locality to celebrate donkey welfare during an event organized by Caritas Kitui and Brooke East Africa.
Held under the theme “Preserving Africa’s Donkey is Our Collective Responsibility,” the event highlighted the growing threat posed by illegal slaughter and the Donkey Hide Trade (DHT).
Speaking during the event, Brooke East Africa Regional Coordinator Dr Raphael Kinoti reiterated that donkey slaughter remains illegal in Kenya and called for strict enforcement against offenders.
The Nguutani event, led by Caritas Kitui Director Florence Ndeti, brought together county officials, animal welfare groups, and local communities.
Activities included free veterinary clinics, medical screenings, rehoming of eight donkeys, and a tree planting exercise, all aimed at promoting donkey welfare and sustainable livelihoods.
Today’s seizure now underscores the urgency of the warnings issued during the celebrations, pointing to a possible entrenched illegal trade operating despite increased awareness and enforcement efforts.
Authorities are expected to provide further updates as investigations continue, even as pressure mounts on law enforcement agencies to dismantle networks involved in the illicit trad
