Cyanide suspected in 15 elephant deaths near Kenya's Amboseli National Park
The Kenya Wildlife Service KWS suggests that the recent deaths of 15 elephants near Amboseli National Park in southern Kenya were likely caused by ingesting pesticides from tomato farms. KWS director general Erustus Kanga stated that analysis of samples from the carcasses revealed traces of cyanide, a highly toxic chemical used in farming for predator control and pest fumigation, and also by poachers. The deaths occurred in the Kimana sanctuary and Kuku Group ranch areas, which are home to over 1,600 elephants. Isaac Lekolool, KWS head of veterinary and capture services, noted that the stomach contents of one elephant included "lots of tomatoes," indicating agrochemical poisoning. Kanga warned of a potentially wider impact, as livestock could also consume contaminated farm produce. Conservation organizations, including Big Life Foundation and the International Fund for Animal Welfare, expressed deep concern over the incident, highlighting the importance of these elephants to the ecosystem and local communities. Historically, farmers and herders in Kenya have poisoned wildlife in response to crop and livestock damage.
