Poacher Shoots, Wounds ZAWA Officer

A SUSPECTED poacher has shot and wounded a Zambia Wildlife Authority (ZAWA) officer in the Bangweulu Game Management Area (GMA).
Formade Kalaba was shot in the wrist while on a routine patrol with fellow ZAWA officers in the Bangweulu GMA on Saturday.
This is according to a statement by ZAWA public relations officer Sakabilo Kalembwe yesterday.
The ZAWA officers had apprehended two suspected poachers who allegedly killed four black lechwe and while leading them away, they met another group of poachers.
“The officers came into contact with another group of poachers and they apprehended one while the others bolted. In the process of apprehending the poacher, he charged and shot the ZAWA officer on the wrist,” Mr Kalembwe said.
He said Mr Kalaba was taken to Chilonga Mission Hospital for medical attention. His condition is stable.
Meanwhile, in Chama Management Area, poachers attacked a senior wildlife police officer, who sustained a fractured leg.
He said John Phiri was attacked while on patrol in Musalangu East GMA when his team met a group of four poachers and apprehended one while three others managed to escape.
“The three poachers decided to re-organise themselves and returned with force and attacked the officers.
“But the ZAWA officers were courageous enough and overpowered the suspect who injured the senior officer. They apprehended him and handed him over to Lundazi Police Station, where he is in custody. He will appear in court soon,” Mr Kalembwe said.