Poacher arrested in shootout

Herald Reporter
September 23, 2010

Police have arrested a poacher after an exchange of gunfire in the Tshabezi Safari Game Park in Gokwe North.

Police Border Control and Minerals Unit national spokesman Assistant Inspector Godfrey Mubaiwa, confirmed the incident that took place on Tuesday.

Asst Insp Mubaiwa said Cuthbert Manyengedza (46) of Manyengedza Village under Chief Chireya teamed up with his son Witness (19) and armed themselves with a .303 rifle. "The two proceeded to Tshabezi Safari Game Park where they unlawfully hunted and killed one buffalo. Game rangers who were patrolling in the same area heard four gunshots and went to investigate," said Asst Insp Mubaiwa.

The rangers followed the tracks of the buffalo, which led them closer to the scene, where they noticed a suspicious movement leading one of them to fire a shot.

Manyengedza returned fire leading to an exchange with the rangers before he surrendered after he was injured.

His son fled the scene.

The rangers recovered the .303 rifle as well as cartridges at the scene.

Manyengedza was taken to Gokwe Hospital where he is receiving treatment under guard.

Asst Insp Mubaiwa urged members of the public to assist with information that may lead to the arrest of Witness Manyengedza.

He warned would-be poachers that patrols have been increased in all safari areas while poachers are also now liable to pay compensation for game they kill to the National Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, besides the custodial sentences.

That's how it should be!