Fifteen elephants in southern Kenya have died in the past month, suspected to have succumbed to cyanide poisoning from contaminated tomatoes, according to wildlife authorities.
Local media reported that officials have not identified any specific party responsible for contaminating tomatoes near Amboseli National Park. Historical incidents suggest farmers may have deliberately introduced toxins to deter elephants from damaging crops.
The park, which borders agricultural and livestock regions, has raised concerns about recurring human-wildlife conflicts.
Kenya Wildlife Service Director General Erustus Kanga confirmed preliminary lab results detected cyanide in the deceased elephants. He emphasized the chemical’s extreme danger to elephants: “Cyanide is highly toxic, and its presence in their food source is alarming.”
The service warned that livestock, including goats and cattle grazing in the same areas, could also face exposure. Kanga stated, “If these toxins are widespread, the impact on local livestock and ecosystems could be severe.”
A health official noted that while the contaminants pose no direct risk to humans, ongoing monitoring is critical to prevent secondary poisoning.