PRESS RELEASE: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Statement on the murder of Esmond Bradley Martin

Nairobi, February 06: It is with deep shock and horror that WildlifeDirect has learnt about the murder of Esmond Bradley Martin on Sunday, 4 February 2018 around 4PM at his house in Langata, Nairobi. We had interacted closely with Esmond on matters to do with ivory trafficking and he always kept us updated on his ivory trade research around the world. WildlifeDirect has called on the government to bring the culprit(s) to justice and we are encouraged by the statement the Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife Najib Balala that four people have been arrested.

Esmond led investigations into ivory and rhino horn trafficking around the world and was at the forefront of exposing the scale of ivory markets in USA, Congo, Nigeria, Angola, China, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Laos and recently Myanmar. He always collaborated with Save the Elephants and worked with many of us generously sharing his findings and views.

The world has lost a great conservationist who was as a global authority on ivory & rhino horn trafficking.

We send our deepest condolences to his wife Chryssee and his research partner Lucy Vigne.

Rest in Peace Esmond, pachyderms have lost a great champion.

Media Contact: Trish Sewe, Communications Manager, WildlifeDirect

Mobile: 0705515709 | Email: psewe@wildlifedirect.org