In a stunning turn of events, two Forestry Commission officers have been found guilty of violating the Parks and Wildlife Act by a Hwange Magistrates’ Court in Zimbabwe.
Enerst Dube, aged 52, and Itai Bira, aged 45, faced charges related to the unlawful removal of animal parts from protected land, shaking the reputation of the very individuals entrusted with conserving Zimbabwe’s natural treasures.
In an incident that unfolded on the 9th of June 2024, the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority received a tip-off regarding the accused persons’ involvement in the unauthorized possession of buffalo meat. The meat in question was derived from a buffalo carcass, which was killed by a lion at Miombo grid along Mpofu road.
Swiftly responding to the information, officials from Zimparks joined forces with the Police, embarking on a mission to uncover the truth. Their investigation led them to the residence of Dube and Bira, where a startling discovery awaited them. Within the confines of the accused individuals’ dwelling, authorities stumbled upon two sacks—one white, the other brown—filled with game meat. The combined weight of the confiscated meat amounted to a staggering 7.46 kilograms. However, when asked to present a permit authorizing their possession of the buffalo meat, both Dube and Bira failed to produce any documentation, sealing their fate and resulting in their immediate arrest.
The accused persons were convicted and were remanded to the 13th of June 2024 for sentencing. This landmark case serves as a stark reminder that no one, regardless of their professional background, is above the law.
The conviction of two Forestry Commission officers for violating the Parks and Wildlife Act sends a powerful message that illegal activities undermining conservation efforts will not be tolerated. It underscores the unwavering commitment of authorities to protect and preserve the country’s natural resources, ensuring they remain intact for future generations to cherish.
