Ntcheu family loses father in elephant attack

A family in Ntcheu has been left in grief after losing 43-year-old Chiunguza Henderson, who died following an elephant attack during a wildlife operation.

Henderson lost his life on Sunday in Zalengela 1 Village under Traditional Authority Ganya as wildlife officers were trying to drive three elephants back to Thuma Forest Reserve.

The animals had wandered into the community, leaving residents shaken by the tragedy.

Ntcheu Police spokesperson Inspector Jacob Khembo said police were alerted by residents who had spotted the elephants roaming in the area.

The police then informed the Department of National Parks and Wildlife, which sent officers to capture and return the animals to the forest.

Director of the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Brighton Kumchedwa said preliminary reports show that a crowd gathered as the officers were handling the elephants, and one of the animals attacked, injuring and killing Henderson.

Kumchedwa has urged people to avoid moving closer to elephants or interfering with wildlife operations, warning that such encounters can have devastating consequences.