According to park officials, the dead lions were found with their heads and paws hacked off in company of dead vultures surrounding their bodies suggesting poisoning.
However, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) said it “cannot rule out illegal wildlife trafficking” as per the matter.
This comes in as a major setback in Uganda’s tourism sector as these particular lions are uniquely known for their ability to climb trees.
The UWA condemned the incident as it sought to reassure the public that the park and its wildlife were both still safe.
In a statement, UWA’s communications manager Bashir Hangi said they were “saddened” by the killings.
He added that nature tourism is an important part of Uganda’s economy, contributing about 10% of its GDP, and plays a vital role in the conservation of animals.
There have been a number of previous incidents where lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park were believed to have been poisoned.
In April 2018, 11 lions – including eight cubs – were found dead after a suspected poisoning. A similar incident led to the deaths of five lions in May 2010.
A team of investigators is working “on the ground” alongside police to establish what happened to the animals and set possible solutions against further incidences.
About Guide2Uganda
Guide2Uganda (www.guide2uganda.ug) is the most comprehensive source of information about Uganda that exists on the web, with more content on Uganda and surrounding towns, attractions, museums and galleries than any other online guide that currently exists for Uganda as well as being a dynamic news and comprehensive events driven site with content being added daily.
According to WeFollow & Peer Index (whom both measure online influence) we are among the most influential online media organizations in Uganda. We were also awarded for ‘’Best Destination Website in Uganda’’ by Jumia Travel Uganda in the 2017-2018 Africa Travel Awards.
If you are planning a visit to Uganda you can always reach us on; info@guide2uganda.ug
