A 34-year-old man from Dombulefu Ward in Bulilima District, Matabeleland South Province, was trampled to death by elephants on Sunday afternoon while returning from Botswana.
The incident occurred near Gungwe Dam, approximately 2km from the Botswana-Zimbabwe border fence, around 3 PM.
The elephants remained at the scene after the attack, delaying recovery of the victim’s body until Monday morning.
Bulilima Rural District Council chief executive officer Billiat Mlauzi confirmed the tragedy, identifying the deceased as Sikhumbuzo Gumbo from Village 17 in Dombulefu ward under Chief Hikwa. Said Mlauzi:
“We suspect the elephants were coming to drink at the dam. The victim was unlucky not to escape as his colleagues did.
“The boys were riding two bicycles, carrying each other, when they spotted the elephants.”
“They immediately dismounted and ran in different directions, but the deceased was caught by the frightened elephants, which had calves, and they attacked him.”
He said the three survivors reported the incident to community elders before the authorities were notified.
Game rangers from Bulilima RDC, ZimParks, and the council’s safari operator, Mvimi Safaris, attended the scene. Added Mlauzi:
“In line with our Human-Wildlife Conflict Assistance Policy of 2017, the council will provide a coffin and US$250 to the family.”
Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) spokesperson Tinashe Farawo confirmed the incident.
More: B-Metro
Pindula WhatsApp Channel
Facebook Page
Leave a Reply