17 Jun 2019

Elephants last week killed two men in Gunitshoga in the Okavango panhandle area and at the Kutamogoree lands in the Central District.

A media release from the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources Conservation and Tourism says one incident happened in Gunitshoga on June 12 involving an Eretsha man, while the second casualty was killed at Kutamogoree lands on June 13.

It says the Kutamogoree man aged between 55 and 60 was killed by a wounded elephant, which raided their crop fields after being shot the day before.

The release says witnesses reported that the elephant dropped dead a few metres after stepping on and squashing the victim, who fell whilst running for his life when the elephant charged.

The ministry extends deepest condolences to the families of the deceased.

The release says police investigations are still ongoing on the two deaths.

Community members, especially those living in areas with elephants have been encouraged to be extra cautious at all times, to reduce chances of elephant attacks where possible.

It says the public is further advised that should there be need to protect themselves, others and their property as per the Wildlife Conversation and National Parks Act, appropriate equipment and skilled personnel must be used.

Citizens have also been encouraged to call the nearest police station, wildlife office or any security forces close by when their property is threatened by dangerous animals. ENDS