RUNDU – The police in Kavango East are investigating a case where an elephant bull was gunned down at Woma village in Kavango West.
The poacher, however, did not remove the tusks, and left bullets on the scene.
New Era understands the elephant may not have been killed by poachers but aggrieved community members, as marauding jumbos continue causing havoc in the area, including the destruction of mahangu fields.
“The ministry of environment was directed to the scene by community members – and when they got there, everything was intact. They [officials] removed the tusks. The elephant was gunned down on Wednesday [last week] at around 08h00,’’ said police spokesperson in Kavango East, senior inspector Raimbert Muronga.
It is alleged that the suspect(s) shot the elephant five times, killing it instantly. The bull elephant is valued at N$295 000.
“Police tracks and investigations continue. The communities are warned not to indulge in these illegal dealings, but to conserve the species. It is a serious offence, and may cause one to be sentenced longer than expected time. Further, we request the communities to bring forward information that may lead to the apprehension of the suspects,’’ he said.
-jmuyamba@nepc.com.na