Zimpapers Logo

Fungai Lupande-Mashonaland Central Bureau

A 48-year-old man from Chirume Village under Chief Matsiwo in Mushumbi was trampled to death by an elephant that he was trying to chase away from his field at night.

Mashonaland Central police spokesperson Inspector Milton Mundembe confirmed the incident, which happened on April 23.

Police said Nero Mutapaunga and his wife Christine Mujangachiso went to their field at around 8pm to guard their crops.

“They heard an elephant trumpet on the other side of the field and the couple went towards that direction to investigate,” said Insp Mundembe.

“They tried to scare and chase away the animal, but it charged towards them and they started running away. Mutapaunga fell down and was trampled to death by the elephant. The wife managed to escape.”

A neighbour, Willard Jeleka, who was in a nearby field, heard the commotion and walked towards Mutapaunga’s field to investigate.

He met Mujangachiso who was running away and she told him what had transpired.

Insp Mundembe said they went back to the scene and discovered the lifeless body of Mutapaunga lying on the ground.

A report was made at Mushumbi Police Station. 

The body had multiple injuries and elephant spores were identified.

Insp Mundembe appealed to people not to chase away or scare wild animals as they risk being attacked.

“We encourage people to stay in harmony with wildlife and to do their farming away from wild animal habitats and corridors,” he said. “If possible, erect a fence around the field to protect the crops.”