02 February 2010, 00:43
KathiZIM-Rampant poaching in Nyanga
Rampant poaching in Nyanga
http://www.thezimbabwean.co.ukWritten by Marcus Tawona
Monday, 01 February 2010 12:53
NYANGA - Wildlife in most tourist resort areas in the province is under
threat as Zanu (PF) supporters and war veterans resettled under the
controversial land reform programme continue their poaching activities
unhindered.
Parks and Wildlife Authority officials told The Zimbabwean last week that
the poachers were targeting kudus, zebras and antelopes.
They said that although they had arrested some poachers in recent weeks,
some of them are walking scot-free as they have strong links with top Zanu
(PF) officials. who provide a ready market for the meat.
"The poachers, mainly resettled farmers, are wreaking havoc and we need
extra manpower to curb the rampant poaching in the area. We urge the police
to take stern measures against the Zanu (PF) officials and war veterans who
are believed to be behind this poaching," said the official.
"The rate at which wildlife is being poached is alarming. We use to have a
lot of zebras but we have only one left here," he added.
Safari operators confirmed massive poaching of wildlife on their ranches