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Zimbabwe: Chiredzi Villager Fined $40,000 for Killing Lions




A CHIREDZI villager has been ordered to pay a fine of $40,000 to Chiredzi rural district council after he snared two stray lions that had killed his cattle.

Billy Makuvele, 26, of Lisenga village, was found guilty of trapping and killing the two lions by magistrate Honest Musiiwa.

Appearing for the state, Douglas Phiri told the court that Makuvele went to his cattle's grazing area where he discovered the cows' carcasses and was convinced they had been killed by lions the previous night.

He then dragged the carcasses and placed them between two trees where he set up two wire snares.

The following morning he visited his traps and found two lions trapped and dead but with all their legs removed.

The court heard that he noticed footprints on the scene and suspected one of his neighbours, Thomas Maswanyana, of having removed the animals' legs.

On being confronted Maswanyana is said to have confirmed finding the lions dead and taking body parts he wanted from the animals.

A row ensued which resulted in the involvement of the police, leading to the arrest of Makuvele.

He pleaded guilty to the offence and was sentenced to 6 months in prison but three months were suspended on condition he does not commit a similar offence in the next five years.

In addition, the court also ordered him to pay $40,000 to the Chiredzi rural district council.

I am sure they will collect the entire fine .