Africa gets tough in war on poachers

Africa is getting tougher in its fight against poaching. New laws with stiff penalties, more military training for rangers and new technology, including drones with thermal cameras, are all helping to protect rhinos and elephants. A new law in Kenya that increases penalties for killing tourist-attracting safari animals is already bearing fruit.

The measures come in the wake of several incidents that have publicised the large trade in ivory and other illegal products from endangered animals.

Last week a Chinese man accused of trying to smuggle ivory in a suitcase was arraigned in a Nairobi court.

Under a new law, long demanded by the Kenya Wildlife Service, that came into effect on January 10, the man could face life in prison and a US$230,000 fine. In the past, poachers and smugglers could walk out of court with a fine less than US$1,000.

On Thursday, Hong Kong announced it would destroy most of its stockpile of confiscated illegal ivory, in a process that could take up to two years. The decision followed similar actions by the mainland, the United States and the Philippines.

Poachers "have to think twice now", says Paul Mbugua, spokesman for the Kenya Wildlife Service. "You just try your luck on the poaching, but the moment we catch up to you, you are done."