Kenya: two farmers arrested for the death of 18 elephants in Amboseli

Two farmers have been arrested as part of the investigation into the deaths of 18 elephants in the Amboseli ecosystem in southern Kenya, where authorities suspect cyanide poisoning. The local media reported this, specifying that the arrests were made after the discovery of further carcasses, which brought the toll of dead animals to 18.

According to the government wildlife agency (KWS), preliminary investigations indicate the presence of cyanide in samples taken from the carcasses. Investigators are checking whether the toxic substance was present in agricultural products or bait used in agricultural areas bordering Amboseli National Park. The two farmers are suspected of having played a role in the poisoning, but investigations are still ongoing.

The affair has reignited the debate on the growing conflict between humans and wildlife in the areas around Amboseli, where elephants frequently leave the park in search of food, causing damage to crops.