Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 7th March 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
Zambia’s Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) has reaffirmed its unwavering stance against poaching and wildlife crimes, emphasizing its commitment to upholding conservation laws and preserving the nation’s rich biodiversity. The department continues to demonstrate its zero-tolerance policy by taking legal action against individuals, including its own officers, implicated in illegal wildlife activities.
In a recent case that underscores the seriousness of the fight against wildlife crimes, two Wildlife Police Officers stationed in the Mumbwa Kafue Region—Charles Mundia and Bramwell Kalangwa—are facing legal action for their alleged involvement in poaching. The officers were implicated in the illegal killing of an impala and a hartebeest on 27th January 2025.
Following an internal investigation, both officers were formally charged with:
- Unlawful possession of a government trophy, in violation of Section 97 of the Zambia Wildlife Act No. 14 of 2015, as read with Statutory Instrument No. 41.
- Unlawful hunting, contrary to Section 19 of the same Act.
The accused officers appeared before the Mumbwa Magistrate Court on 25th February 2025, where they pleaded not guilty. Their trial is scheduled to commence on 13th March 2025. DNPW has strongly condemned the involvement of law enforcement officers in such offenses, reinforcing its commitment to accountability within its ranks.
In a separate case that further highlights the breadth of the government’s crackdown on poaching, a local magistrate has been convicted for multiple wildlife offenses. Bowas Katwamba, a 48-year-old magistrate from Mulonga Local Court in Mushindamo District, was found guilty of illegal activities within a national park and was sentenced to a fine of K136,000 or, in default, a three-month prison term.
Katwamba was convicted on the following charges:
- Unlawful possession of a government trophy (Section 97 of the Zambia Wildlife Act No. 14 of 2015).
- Unlawful entry into a National Park (Section 18 of the Act).
- Unlawful conveying of a weapon in a National Park, as stipulated by the Act.
This conviction serves as a strong message that no one is above the law, regardless of their position in society.
DNPW has reiterated that it will continue to enforce strict measures to curb poaching and wildlife-related crimes. The department remains firm in ensuring that perpetrators—whether private individuals or government officials—face the full force of the law.
The Zambian government remains dedicated to the sustainability of its natural heritage and the protection of its national parks. Through rigorous law enforcement and conservation efforts, Zambia aims to safeguard its wildlife for future generations.
DNPW has called upon the public to support conservation initiatives and report any suspicious wildlife activities, emphasizing that preserving Zambia’s biodiversity is a collective responsibility.
The Agency.