Two individuals, Shelton Chibaya (36) and Benedict Mutinhima (31), employed at Kyle Recreational Park in Masvingo, found themselves in legal trouble after being discovered in possession of five lion head skulls, which they had intended to sell. The incident resulted in both men appearing before Harare magistrate Ruth Moyo, facing charges under the Parks and Wildlife Act. Upon pleading guilty, they were each fined US$100.
According to Prosecutor Mandirasa Chigumira, between February 1 and 16 of this year, Chibaya and Mutinhima procured the five lion head skulls from the Micho bush area near Liveson Wild Farm in Masvingo, with the purpose of selling them. On February 16, Shelton Chibaya collaborated with Patson Ndlovu, who was already under remand, to transport the lion head skulls from Masvingo to Harare for potential sale. They entrusted the lion head skulls to the safekeeping of Mazowe Mansion flats, situated at the corner of Mazowe Street and Baines Avenue, while seeking potential buyers.
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The turn of events came the following day around 9 am when detectives from CID Minerals, Flora, and Fauna Unit received intel regarding the possession of lion head skulls by the accused. Disguised as potential buyers, the detectives engaged Chibaya and Ndlovu, negotiating the sale of the lion head skulls at US$1,500 each. A third individual known only as Chaka, who remains at large, was also involved in the transaction.
Upon locating Chaka’s vehicle, the detectives, along with Ndlovu, entered their vehicle, while Chibaya and Chaka remained outside. It was at this juncture that the detectives revealed their true identities and proceeded to apprehend the culprits. The recovered lion heads were assessed to have a value of US$100,000.