Two Men Arrested for Poaching Giraffe in Zimbabwe

By Sinokubonga Nkala | Contact: [email protected]

Two men were arrested for poaching a giraffe in Sikumi, Hwange after vultures sold the duo out to rangers.

The Parks and Wildlife Act in Zimbabwe strictly prohibits unauthorized hunting, killing, or removal of any wildlife, including giraffes.

The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe, in a recent statement, said Thulani Dube (28) and Smart Banda (42) were brought before the Hwange Magistrates’ Court on charges of violating the Parks and Wildlife Act, specifically related to the removal of any animal or part of an animal from its natural habitat.

“On August 24, 2024, a ranger team on patrol at Mtharanhaka block in Sikumi, Dete, noticed vultures circling overhead, indicating the presence of a dead animal nearby. Following the trail, the team discovered four legs and the lower jaw of a giraffe. They traced spoor and bloodstains to the residence of the first accused individual, where dried giraffe meat was found, leading to his apprehension. The first accused also implicated the second accused. The value of the giraffe was estimated at US$3,500.”