The Akashinga Wildlife Crime Unit, a prominent organization dedicated to combating wildlife crime in Zimbabwe, has been embroiled in allegations of staged poaching activities within the Hurungwe zone.
Critics claim that the unit collaborates with certain community members to orchestrate fake poaching incidents.
Critics allege that Akashinga works with certain community members to stage poaching incidents. These individuals, often referred to as “insiders,” are allegedly involved in setting up fake evidence or luring others into fabricated crimes. However, these insiders are later released under the guise of escaping, raising questions about the authenticity of the arrests.
Many of those implicated in these staged operations allege that they are victims of fake traps and raids, targeting them based on their involvement in community activities or perceived opposition to Akashinga’s activities.
Founder Demion Mander and manager Henry Mclawane, have vehemently denied these allegations, but acknowledged the allegations and attributed the claims to a disgruntled former employee, while Mclawane dismissed them as attempts to hinder the unit’s efforts against wildlife crime.
“All these allegations were investigated and all linked back to a disgruntled former employee,” said Mander.
“If there are such reports, be assured that they are not fighting crime in wildlife but want to discourage our efforts against wildlife crime,” said Mclawane.
Meanwhile, Henry Mclawane, was recently accused of shooting and killing two dogs belonging to a local resident.
The incident occurred when Akashinga scouts encountered Collen William, who was accompanied by seven dogs, near the boundary between the national parks and the village. A heated exchange ensued after the scouts accused William’s dogs of killing a rabbit. During the altercation, Mclawane allegedly shot two of William’s dogs with a P1 pistol, killing one and severely injuring the other. Another Akashinga employee, Shadreck Midzi, also fired at the dogs, further escalating the situation.
Following the incident, William reported the matter to the police, leading to the arrest of Mclawane and Midzi. The damages have been assessed at US$240, but the fate of the remaining dogs remains uncertain.
The incident has sparked significant controversy in the community. Chief Chundu has called for improved communication between villagers and Akashinga to prevent similar conflicts in the future.
Mclawane is also facing additional charges, including unlawful entry, after allegedly searching a villager without a warrant.
