Online Reporter
Patience Ndlovu and Mkhululi Ncube
A 34-YEAR-OLD man from Dombulefu ward in Bulilima District, Matabeleland South Province, was on Sunday afternoon trampled to death by elephants while returning from Botswana.
The incident adds to the growing list of deadly human-wildlife conflicts reported across the country. After the attack, the elephants reportedly camped at the scene, delaying recovery of the body until Monday morning.
Bulilima Rural District Council chief executive officer Billiat Mlauzi confirmed the tragedy, identifying the victim as Sikhumbuzo Gumbo from Village 17 in Dombulefu ward under Chief Hikwa.
The attack happened near Gungwe Dam, about 2km from the Botswana-Zimbabwe border fence, around 3pm.
“We suspect the elephants were coming to drink at the dam. The victim was unlucky not to escape as his colleagues did. The boys were riding two bicycles, carrying each other, when they spotted the elephants. They immediately dismounted and ran in different directions, but the deceased was caught by the frightened elephants, which had calves, and they attacked him,” said Mlauzi.
He said the three who escaped reported the matter to elders before authorities were alerted. Game rangers from Bulilima RDC, ZimParks, and council safari operator Mvimi Safaris attended the scene.
“In line with our Human-Wildlife Conflict Assistance Policy of 2017, the council will provide a coffin and US$250 to the family,” said Mlauzi.
Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority spokesperson Tinashe Farawo confirmed the incident.
“We have retrieved the body and investigations are underway. We are deeply saddened by another loss of life,” he said.
Londile Moyo