Kenya wildlife service links 15 elephant deaths to cyanide poisoning

A recent investigation by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has linked the deaths of 15 elephants near a southern Kenyan park to the ingestion of pesticides. Director‑General Erustus Kanga told Citizen TV that laboratory analysis of the carcasses revealed traces of cyanide, a chemical commonly employed in farming as a predator‑control poison and pest fumigant. The poison is also known to be used by poachers, raising concerns about both agricultural runoff and illicit activity.

The affected elephants were found in an area adjacent to tomato farms that routinely apply cyanide‑based chemicals. KWS officials say the animals likely ingested the compound through contaminated vegetation or water sources, leading to fatal toxicity. The agency is coordinating with local agricultural authorities to assess the extent of chemical use and to implement measures to prevent further contamination of wildlife habitats.

KWS has urged farmers to adopt safer pest‑control practices and to monitor runoff near wildlife corridors. The service will continue to investigate the incident and collaborate with environmental and law‑enforcement agencies to mitigate risks to both wildlife and local communities.