4 arrested with 41 elephant tusks in Harare

Detectives from the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Criminal Investigations Department (CID) last Friday arrested four suspects found in illegal possession of 41 elephant tusks weighing a total of 237 kilograms.

ZRP national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrests and details of the operation.

"On May 30, 2025, ZRP CID Minerals, Flora and Fauna, Harare, acted on a tip and arrested Masauso Nevhaya (48), Priscilla Chabata (52), Wonder Bozho (51), and Stanford Mbiriyakura (49) for unlawful possession of 41 pieces of ivory weighing 237kgs," Commissioner Nyathi said.

The suspects were apprehended in Braeside along Seke Road, near Telecel Zimbabwe, while scouting for potential buyers of the ivory.

Police recovered 35 elephant tusks that were packed in brown sacks inside a Datsun Go vehicle at the scene. Further investigations led officers to Priscilla Chabata's residence, where an additional six tusks were recovered.

The ZRP continues its crackdown on wildlife crimes, reaffirming its commitment to protect Zimbabwe's rich natural heritage and combat illegal wildlife trafficking. The suspects are expected to appear in court facing charges related to the illegal possession of protected wildlife products.