HWANGE - A 30-year-old woman from Kalala village was trampled to death by an elephant two weeks ago while trying to prevent the animal from ruining her maize crop. Police in the Matabeleland North province confirmed the death of Abigail Mathe. I can confirm that such an incident took place. The now deceased was in the company of two of her relatives who were trying to scare elephants from destroying their maize crop using catapults. The elephant charged towards them but the other two managed to outrun it. Mathe was not as fortunate, said the provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Trust Ndlovu.
Elephants are a perennial problem in Hwange district owing to the proximity to the Hwange National Park. The Hwange District Administrator, Siyatimbula Lot Mumpande, said it was
sad to note that many locals crops are being destroyed by elephants.
Its a pity that despite having an excellent crop, most villagers in Matetsi wont reap much as elephants are wrecking havoc in the area. It appears the elephants have increased in volume compared to last year, said Mumpande.
Post published in: News