Rangers from the Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit (VFAPU) have discovered the carcass of an adult male elephant with its tusks missing, raising concerns of a potential poaching incident.
The carcass, which appeared to be several days old and showed signs of scavenging, was located on a property near Victoria Falls.
“Upon investigation, the carcass of an adult male elephant was discovered. Several days old, with clear signs of scavenging. However, most notably was the absence of the tusks,” reads a statement from VFAPU.
The discovery was made following alerts from researchers at the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust (VFWT), who monitor collared wildlife in the area, including lions and vultures. Data from tracking collars led the Africa Centre for Holistic Management to the suspected site.
Authorities from the Police’s Minerals Flora and Fauna Unit (MFFU) and National Parks Investigations were called to the scene. While the cause of death was not immediately clear, officials observed knife marks on the carcass and evidence that meat had been removed. The tusks were missing, suggesting possible ivory harvesting.
“Whilst there was no obvious cause of death, there were clear indications of the ivory having been removed by people, as well as evidence, through knife marks, that some meat had been harvested,”
“Whether this elephant died from natural causes or was deliberately killed, the removal of ivory is a criminal offence.”
An investigation is ongoing. Authorities are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the elephant’s death and to trace the missing ivory.
Officials urged the public and those operating in wildlife areas to report any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities.
“We appeal to all who frequent our wildlife areas to immediately report any unusual findings or suspicious behavior to the wildlife authorities.”
