Two arrested in connection to killing wandering buffaloes in Nsanje

Malawi Police in Nsanje have arrested two people in connection to the killing of one of the buffaloes which have been causing havoc in the communities of Nyakamera, Mpangira and surrounding villages under the area of Senior Chief Malemia in district.

Nsanje police publicist Sergeant Agnes Zalakoma confirmed the development as she identified those arrested as Ruo Khambadza 24 of Mpangira village 2 and Jailosi Fungulani 48 of the same area.

Sergeant Zalakoma said the two will be charged with being found in possession of protected wild animal and killing a protected animal respectively which attract a a maximum penalty of a 5 Million and 10 months imprisonment as per the country’s national parks and wildlife act.

Lower shire division Manager for National parks and wildlife Alick Makanjira confirmed that three buffaloes have been wandering about in the area but was quick to say no person has been injured.

“It is really true that three buffaloes have been wandering about in the area of group village head Mpangira in Nsanje district. We are yet to know where these buffaloes are coming from whether from Mwabvi game reserve or Mozambique,” said Makanjira.

Makanjira was however quick to say the situation is under control saying they have deployed a team of three hunters to the area and they will send two more to beef up the number of rangers to ensure safety of people’s lives and their property.

He however faulted the communities for taking the laws into their own hands by killing the wild animal.

“As a department, we expected the communities to approach us so that we assist them and not killing the animal which is protected by laws. Communities should have not taken the laws into their own hands by killing the wild animal before consulting the department,” concluded Makanjira.

Senior Group Village Head Mpangira said as a local leader he is concerned with the stray animals which have been causing havoc in his area.

Mpangira also backed the action by some communities who killed one of the buffaloes Tuesday claiming they did it to protect their lives and property.

He therefore sounded an SOS calling upon national parks and wildlife to act for the sake of their safety.