Poaching, drug peddling on the rise in Ngamiland

According to the United States International Conservation Caucus Foundation (ICCF), “Wildlife products have become a substantial source of income for terrorist organisations in Africa.” The organisation adds that the fact that rate of wildlife poaching has increased from 1989 to the present date, it is believed to be due to the increase in involvement of organised crime associations.

Botswana is currently battling poaching. Recently, at least 26 elephants allegedly had their faces hacked off and their tusks removed in the Chobe National Park. In another incident this time in Ngamiland, Maun police arrested two Zambian citizens and a Motswana on allegations of poaching. This was after they were found in possession of six elephant tasks. The suspects were arrested at Makalamabedi search point. The police officers stopped and searched the vehicle the trio were travelling in and found the six tusks in a specially designed hidden compartment. The suspects are expected to appear in before Maun Magistrate Court on next week on September 13.