A suspected poacher was arrested last week inside Chizarira National Park after being found in possession of cyanide, a highly toxic chemical often used to kill elephants and rhinos for their ivory.
Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) spokesperson Tinashe Farawo(pictured) confirmed the arrest.
The 45-year-old suspect was reportedly found carrying approximately 100 grams of cyanide, along with various tools commonly associated with poaching activities. Said Farawo:
A 45-year-old suspected poacher was arrested in Chizarira National Park with approximately 100 grams of cyanide and other assortment of tools used in poaching. He was held in police custody, awaiting appearance in court.
Cyanide continues to pose a deadly threat to Zimbabwe’s wildlife, with devastating consequences for entire ecosystems.
In one of the worst incidents, over 80 elephants were killed in 2013 after poachers laced a waterhole with the toxic chemical in Hwange National Park.
The poisoning not only claimed the lives of the elephants but also affected smaller animals and predators that fed on the carcasses.
Cyanide’s indiscriminate nature makes it especially dangerous. It is often used to contaminate water sources, making detection difficult until widespread deaths occur.
The chemical’s impact extends far beyond its intended targets, leaving long-term environmental damage in its wake.
In 2024, Chinese national Li Song was arrested for allegedly importing large quantities of cyanide illegally. She later skipped bail and is believed to have fled the country.
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