Ranger, poacher killed in shootout
By Thandizo Banda
A 19-YEAR-OLD game ranger died after being shot by poachers while patrolling with others at Bush Cut Farm in Chisamba District.
Central Province commissioner of police Charity Munganga has identified the victim as Zachariah Hachombe.
“On 4th October 2025 around 15:00 hours, six Bush Cut Farm game rangers armed with three pump action firearms and a security dog on patrol spotted five unknown male persons at a distance carrying some sacks heading towards the neighbouring farm. Two out of the five were armed with shotguns,” Munganga said.
She said when they saw the rangers, the two armed poachers started firing at them.
The rangers also opened fire, leading to an exchange of fire.
“During the exchange of fire, four poachers managed to escape, leaving behind one armed with a shotgun, who opened fire and shot at the now deceased,” Munganga narrated.
She said the exchange of fire between the rangers and the armed poacher continued until he was gunned down.
“The deceased poacher has been identified as Tobias Mbozi of Mbozi Farm,” Chisamba said.
Police officers recovered a CBC Brazil 12 Gauge single shotgun, serial number 1477126 MOD-151, with with live ammunition and four shotgun shells from the scene,” Munganga said.
She said pieces of warthog meat hidden in sacks were also recovered in the process.
Police said a manhunt for the other poachers who escaped is under way.
“We are appealing to anyone with information leading to their apprehension to report to the nearest police station,” Munganga said.
The bodies of the ranger and the poacher are in Chisamba Rural Health Centre mortuary awaiting postmortem.
