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Erustus Kanga reports that 15 elephants in Kenya's Amboseli National Park were likely poisoned by cyanide-contaminated tomatoes.

Kenya Wildlife Service Director General Erustus Kanga confirmed that 15 elephants died in the Amboseli ecosystem between June and July 2026 due to suspected cyanide poisoning. Preliminary laboratory tests conducted by the University of Nairobi detected the toxic chemical in samples taken from the carcasses. The deaths occurred primarily in the Kimana sanctuary and Kuku Group ranch areas, where elephants often stray onto nearby tomato farms. While ten of the elephants showed signs of paralysis before dying, five others were found already dead. The Kenya Wildlife Service ruled out foul play for now, though farmers have historically poisoned wildlife to protect crops. Authorities warned that the cyanide contamination could eventually impact local livestock, such as goats and cattle, but stated there is no immediate risk to human health. This cluster of deaths is significant as poaching has been virtually eliminated in the region, making the unexplained mortality a notable event for the conservation of one of Africa's most important wildlife habitats.

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