Fifteen elephants have died in southern Kenya after consuming pesticides containing cyanide, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) reported. The deaths occurred near the Kimana Sanctuary and Kuku Group Ranch, areas adjacent to Amboseli National Park.

KWS Director General Erustus Kanga stated that tests on samples taken from the elephant carcasses revealed traces of cyanide, a toxic chemical commonly used in agriculture as a predator control poison and pest fumigant. Cyanide has also been employed in illegal poaching activities. Kanga noted that exposure to cyanide is lethal to elephants within one to two days.

The investigation highlights the risks posed by the use of hazardous chemicals in farming near wildlife habitats. Tomato farms in the affected areas reportedly apply pesticides that may have contributed to the elephants' deaths. Authorities are examining how the animals might have ingested the poison, raising concerns about the interface between agricultural practices and wildlife conservation.

Efforts to address the incident are ongoing, with wildlife officials seeking to prevent further casualties and to promote safer pesticide management in regions bordering protected areas. The Kenya Wildlife Service has emphasized the need for heightened vigilance and cooperation among local communities, farmers, and conservation agencies to protect vulnerable elephant populations.