Nairobi, Kenya – Four men, including two Belgian teenagers, appeared in court on Tuesday facing charges of wildlife piracy related to the smuggling of ants. While Kenya has faced challenges with the trafficking of body parts of larger species like elephants and rhinos, this case marks a shift towards the smuggling of lesser-known but ecologically critical species, according to the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).

The two Belgian 19-year-olds were arrested with 5,000 live ants of the sought-after Messor Cephalotes species, also known as the Giant African Harvester Ant. Valued at 1 million shillings ($7,700, €6,819), the ants were packed in syringes and test tubes filled with cotton wool, specifically modified for long-term survival during transit.

Kenyan authorities highlighted the suspects’ intention to smuggle the ants to high-value exotic pet markets in Europe and Asia, where demand for rare insect species is on the rise. Additionally, two other individuals, a Vietnamese and a Kenyan, were arrested in possession of 400 ants in Nairobi and are also facing trafficking charges.

During a court session, all four suspects pleaded guilty to the charges. The Belgians claimed they were collecting the ants for fun and were unaware that their actions were illegal. The case has been adjourned until April 23, with the smugglers remaining in custody.

The Giant African Harvester Ant, native to East Africa, is prized for its unique behavior, complex colony-building capabilities, and greenhouse pest control. Specialist retailers describe the species as visually stunning and highly sought after by collectors. However, the illegal export of these ants undermines Kenya’s biodiversity and deprives local communities and research institutions of potential ecological and economic benefits.

Overall, the case sheds light on the growing trend of trafficking in ecologically important species, emphasizing the need for stronger enforcement and international cooperation to combat wildlife piracy. The court’s decision on the fate of the suspects remains pending as authorities work to address the complexities of illegal wildlife trade.