Police arrest US deputy ambassador to Malawi: Found ‘smuggling’ ivory

Malawi Police at Kamuzu International Airport in Lilongwe on Thursday arrested the deputy ambassador to Malawi for  allegedly being found in possession of a piece of ivory.

Airport police confirmed the arrest Michael Gonzalez.

“He was indeed arrested after he was found with the piece of ivory but he was released shortly,” said a police officer.

Officials from his office confirmed the arrest but refused to give details.

He is the most senior person to be caught with ivory at Kamuzu International Airport.

The police have in the past arrested Chinese and people of other nationalities.

The US is one of the major donors in Malawi.