Zimparks dismisses stray lion rumours in Chinhoyi

Walter Nyamukondiwa

Mashonaland WEST bureau Chief

THE Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks) has dismissed rumours of a stray lion that was reportedly spotted in the Mapako area of Chinhoyi.

Rumours started circulating on Tuesday evening that a motorist had spotted a lioness on his way home to Mapako.

The lion had reportedly escaped from the Chinhoyi Caves Enclosure and had moved to the nearby Mapako Suburb.

Fear gripped residents with many forming walking teams to escort children to school.

“Today we had to escort our children to school in groups because of the rumours of a lion having escaped from the Chinhoyi Caves Enclosure,” said Mrs Gemina Chando.

“Everyone is afraid that they may be attacked by the lion.”

However, Zimparks spokesperson Mr Tinashe Farawo has dismissed the rumours, saying all the lions are safely in their enclosure.

Mr Farawo said rangers combed the area and there are no signs or traces of a lion in the area.

“Zimparks dismisses reports of an alleged stray lion in the Mapako area of Chinhoyi that is said to have escaped from the Chinhoyi Caves lion enclosure,” said Mr Farawo.

“Our reaction team conducted a thorough assessment of the area and found no evidence of a lion.

“We would like to reassure the public that the lion enclosure currently houses two lions, both of which are secure.”

Mr Farawo said the safety of communities and wildlife was its priority before urging the public to avoid spreading unverified information, as it could cause unnecessary panic.

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