Cyanide Poisoning Suspected in Mysterious Deaths of 15 Elephants in Kenya

Kenya Wildlife Service launches investigation into the mass deaths of elephants near Amboseli, with initial evidence pointing to toxic pesticides.

NAIROBI — Kenyan authorities are investigating the tragic deaths of 15 elephants discovered in a national park near the iconic Amboseli region, with preliminary findings suggesting the animals were victims of cyanide poisoning. The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has centered its investigation on the possibility that the elephants inadvertently consumed cyanide-laced pesticides used by local farmers to protect tomato crops. The mass die-off has sparked international outrage and deep concern among conservationists, as Amboseli is home to some of Africa’s most celebrated elephant herds. While o…