adminThe Herald, 8 October, 1980
AN intensive military-style operation, involving police and aircraft, has been set up in the Que Que area to combat stock theft and poaching.
Units of the air force are using fixed-wing light aircraft for reconnaissance flights over the areas of commercial farming land to the south and west of Que Que.
Specially trained police patrol teams are deployed by helicopter to investigate anything suspicious, such as cattle obviously out of place or poachers’ fires.
Police foot patrols are being landed in some of the more inaccessible areas. The round-the-clock operation, involving about 30 armed police and several aircraft, started last week and is expected to last for at least two or three weeks.
It is thought to be the first time the air force has been involved in an operation against stock thieves. Patrols have previously moved around in vehicles on the ground.
The airborne operation at Que Que began a few days before a statement on Friday by Midlands MP Mr Henry Elsworth, that about half of the stock theft in the country now takes place in that area
Police acknowledge that Que Que rural district is one of the areas of Zimbabwe hardest hit by stock theft and poaching. Chief Superintendent Rob Anderson, officer commanding Que Que police district, said that in the first six months of this year more than 600 head of cattle were reported stolen.
He said: “To combat the increase in stock theft a specialised stock theft team was formed in July. To date it has been responsible for the recovery of 218 head of cattle, valued at approximately $25 000, and for the arrest of 16 stock thieves.
“The present operation is an extension of the activities of the stock theft team and incorporates anti-poaching patrols. It is run virtually along military lines.”
Chief Superintendent Anderson said poaching had been on the increase in recent months. He was especially concerned about snaring, which was indiscriminate and often affected cattle.
“One of the greatest obstacles involved in stock theft and poaching investigations in the distance that has to be covered. With the use of aircraft, this problem has been overcome,” he said.
Our Bulawayo Correspondent writes that members of the National Army are patrolling Bulawayo’s western suburbs with the police,
LESSONS FOR TODAY
The fight against poaching in Zimbabwe requires a multi-faceted approach that combines legislative measures, community engagement, technological innovations, and international support. By addressing the root causes of poaching through education and economic opportunities while simultaneously enforcing strict laws against illegal hunting, Zimbabwe aims to protect its rich wildlife heritage for future generations.
The need for effective strategies to combat poaching is critical not only for wildlife conservation, but also for the livelihoods of communities that depend on these resources.
The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) has also increased its efforts in law enforcement by enhancing intelligence gathering and improving collaboration with local communities. Community involvement is also crucial as residents often serve as the first line of defence against poachers.
Technological advancements have also contributed significantly to anti-poaching efforts. Enhanced surveillance systems, including drones and camera traps, allow for better monitoring of protected areas. Additionally, partnerships with international conservation organisations provide financial support for ranger training and welfare improvements.
Online Reporter