One suspected poacher gunned down at Tsavo West National Park

One suspected poacher was on Saturday morning shot dead while another fled during a shoot-out with Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) rangers at Tsavo West National Park.

According to a statement from KWS, three rangers were on routine patrol at the park near Mang’elete area boundary when they encountered the two armed suspected poachers.

“The suspects immediately shot at the rangers and a shootout ensued. During the shootout, one suspect was killed while his colleague who is believed to have sustained injuries managed to escape,” read the statement.

Some of the items recovered on the scene include: One heavy caliber rifle, one heavy caliber rifle cartridge, three automatic rifle cartridges and one telephone.

The incident was reported at Mtito Andei Police Station, Makueni County, and the body of the deceased transferred to Makindu Mortuary.

KWS further stated that they have since launched a hunt for the other suspected poacher who is currently still at large.