Elephants Raid Maize Field in Mukuni Chiefdom

Описание: By Angela Hanuka

Elephants have raided a maize field belonging to an elderly couple in Mukuni Chiefdom, leaving a trail of destruction.

Seventy-three-year-old Georgina Siloka told ZNBC News that two adult elephants, believed to be part of a herd that recently migrated back into the area, invaded her family’s field in the early hours of Wednesday. The animals ate and trampled on the maize crop.

Ms. Siloka said the family was asleep when the elephants raided the field and were only alerted by their son, who heard unusual movements outside. She added that the incident has left the family shaken and worried that the elephants might return and wipe out their harvest.

Another farmer, Febian Siaziboola, said many families are now spending sleepless nights guarding their fields as the animals continue to pose a threat. He explained that farmers had recorded promising yields this season and did not expect the elephants to migrate back this early.

Meanwhile, Ministry of Tourism Principal Public Relations Officer Nelly Banda said officers from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife are closely monitoring the herd’s movement. She added that the department has intensified community sensitization efforts in collaboration with Njovu Wildlife Conservation.

Ms. Banda urged residents not to harass or provoke the animals, warning that the herd includes several calves and may become aggressive if disturbed.