Victoria Falls Man Arrested in Anti-Poaching Operation Over Alleged Illegal Guinea Fowl Trade

A Victoria Falls man has been arrested following a joint anti-poaching operation targeting the alleged illegal hunting and trade of guinea fowl, in a move authorities say underscores their commitment to protecting wildlife and preserving biodiversity.

The Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit (VFAPU) said the arrest followed intelligence reports alleging that the suspect was involved in the large-scale killing and sale of guinea fowl within the resort city.

Acting on the information, wildlife officers launched an intensive surveillance operation that lasted nearly two weeks, gathering evidence before executing a sting operation that resulted in the suspect’s arrest.

Authorities recovered 11 guinea fowl carcasses during the operation, which are believed to be linked to the alleged illegal wildlife activities under investigation.

In a statement, the Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit described the alleged offences as a serious threat to wildlife conservation efforts, warning that unchecked poaching could have a detrimental impact on local guinea fowl populations and the broader ecosystem.

The unit emphasised the importance of community participation in combating wildlife crime, noting that public information played a key role in initiating the investigation.

VFAPU also confirmed that the operation was conducted in close collaboration with the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority and the Zimbabwe Republic Police, reflecting a coordinated approach to tackling wildlife-related offences.

Authorities have reiterated their commitment to enforcing conservation laws and urged members of the public to report suspected wildlife crimes to help safeguard Zimbabwe’s natural heritage for future generations.

By Witness A Phiri