Another cyanide attack, 11 elephants dead in Hwange

Eleven elephants have died in yet another cyanide attack at the Hwange National Park.

The elephants carcases were discovered 38 kilometres from the Hwange Main Camp during a routine patrol by Parks and Wildlife Management Authority rangers.

Parks and Wildlife Management Authority Regional Manager Arthur Musakwa confirmed the incident saying two suspects from Chizhou Village under Chief Nekatambe have been arrested in connection with the case.

He added that his organisation is working with stakeholders who include the Zimbabwe Republic Police while recruiting more rangers in an effort to curb incidences of poaching which are becoming more frequent at the Park.

He said the spoor was spotted by the rangers and led them to the homes of the suspects who were found in possession of 200 granules of cyanide.

The poachers applied the cyanide at a natural salt lick.

The two are assisting Parks and Wildlife Management Authority as well as the Zimbabwe Republic
Police with information which will help in breaking the syndicate.

Thirteen elephant tusks have been recovered so far.

Meanwhile, eight vultures have also been killed in the process.