Human-Wildlife Conflict; Man killed by Elephants while guarding gardens in Kasese

The Territorial Police of Hima Division in Kasese District is investigating circumstances under which a man identified as Mugisha Yoram was allegedly killed by elephants.

According to SP Nelson Tumushime the PRO Rwenzori East Region, Kasese, preliminary information suggests that Yoram, along with two others, were attacked by elephants while guarding their gardens during the early hours of the morning of August 13, 2023, at around 4:00 AM.

The incident occurred in Kanyatete Village, Karusandara Sub-county, located in Kasese District. Yoram, a 33-year-old resident of Mubuku II, Karusandara Sub-county, was part of a group attempting to protect their gardens from potential destruction by elephants.

It is reported that the deceased and his companions were unexpectedly confronted by a group of elephants and Yoram suffered severe injuries and tragically succumbed to the attack on spot.

In response to the incident, Tumushime says that a team of detectives, led by DCID D/Asp Ayebazibwe Jove, visited the scene of the incident to gather relevant evidence and information.

Statements were recorded from witnesses who were present during the incident and the deceased’s body was retrieved from the scene and transported to Kasese Health Centre III, where a post-mortem examination was conducted to ascertain the exact cause of death.

Following the examination, the body was released to Yoram’s family for burial arrangements. Police are still investigating to gather additional information and insights into the circumstances surrounding the attack.

Human-wildlife conflict remains a big challenge in communities that live near National Parks.