The courts are continuing to take a tough line on wildlife crimes in Malawi, passing down custodial sentences with no option of a fine. It’s also another encouraging result, for our new public-private litigation initiative (the first being the Zambia army captain last week).

Mandala Chirwa, pictured, was sent to prison for 5.5 years for possession and dealing in 24 kg of raw ivory, no option of a fine, by Mchinji Magistrates Court yesterday.

Congratulations to both the Chief Magistrate Ruth Chinangawa and Prosecutor, Mr Levison Mangane and a very good collaborative efforts from the Dept of Parks & Wildlife, the police and investigators.