Miano: Cyanide poisoning suspected in deaths of 18 Amboseli elephants

The Kenyan government is intensifying its investigation into the deaths of 18 elephants in the Amboseli ecosystem, following preliminary laboratory findings suggesting potential cyanide poisoning. The first 15 elephant fatalities were reported between June 24 and July 24, leading to the launch of a multi-agency probe by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).

This investigation involves security, investigative, and scientific agencies, all working to determine the cause of death for the affected elephants. Preliminary results indicate the elephants may have ingested cyanide linked to pesticide-contaminated tomatoes from farms near wildlife habitats. However, the government has yet to confirm these findings through scientific verification.

In the meantime, the multi-agency team has already arrested four persons of interest and is seeking additional information from another individual. A search in Tikondo, Kimana, within Loitoktok Sub-County, also yielded unlabelled chemicals believed to have been sourced from a neighboring country. The government assures that it will allow the investigative and judicial processes to follow their appropriate course, with any individual found responsible for unlawful killing, poisoning, or harming wildlife facing prosecution.

Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Miano emphasized the government's commitment to strengthening wildlife protection beyond national parks and reserves. She highlighted plans to enhance intelligence-led protection, surveillance, scientific investigations, and rapid response in vulnerable areas. Additionally, authorities aim to increase monitoring of the illegal use, trafficking, and careless handling of hazardous substances that could harm wildlife, people, and ecosystems.

The public is urged to report any wildlife crime through lawful channels as investigators continue their inquiries into the elephant deaths.