ZimParks increases reward to US$4k for information on lion poachers

Ivan Zhakata

Herald Correspondent

Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) and its conservation partners have increased the reward for any information that can lead to the arrest of suspects responsible for the poaching of three lions in Hwange National Park to US$4000 .

ZimParks rangers recently came across three dead lions suspected to have been killed in a poaching incident.

“Anyone with information may contact ZimParks spokesperson, Mr Tinashe Farawo. All information will be treated with strict confidence,” read a statement from Zimparks.

Mr Farawo said the lions had their heads and legs chopped off.

“ZimParks is investigating a suspected case of poaching in Hwange National Park. Preliminary investigations have shown that the suspects chopped off the legs and the heads of the lions. Our reaction teams are on the ground,” Mr Farawo posted on his personal X account.

It is believed that the incident took place at Nyamandlovu Pan, 7km from the Hwange National Park main gate.

Mr Farawo said the bullet holes on the carcasses indicate that a heavy calibre rifle was used.