Game Officer Killed by Elephant Poachers

On April 17th, 2006 Mr. Emmanuel Muyengi, District Game Officer of Simanjiro District in northern Tanzania, was shot by poachers and died. Mr. Muyengi was leading a raid on elephant poachers in Simanjiro on April 16th. The poachers were reportedly in possession of two vehicles, elephant tusks and firearms and ammunition. In the course of apprehending the poaching gang, Mr. Muyengi was targeted and shot in the leg. The poachers used the ensuing confusion during the shoot-out to escape on foot into the bush. The two vehicles and tusks were seized by authorities. Muyengi was rushed to a hospital but died a day later, reportedly from loss of blood.

Mr. Muyengi was a key collaborator with AWF in conservation efforts within the Maasai Steppe Heartland and his tragic loss is a blow to conservation in Simanjiro. The Simanjiro Plains is a key wildlife dispersal area in northern Tanzania, and a focal point of AWF's conservation planning. Despite being under sourced and understaffed, the District Council of Simanjiro and Wildlife Division are making efforts to stem some of the losses due to poaching in Simanjiro. AWF is working to enhance an anti-poaching network in the Maasai Steppe that provides more resources to agencies involved in law enforcement and enhances communication and collaboration. Mr. Muyengi's loss illustrates the extreme risks which AWF partners and staff occasionally face in the line of duty.

Our sincere condolences are extended to Mr. Muyengi's family and his colleagues at Simanjiro District Council.