The Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA) has successfully captured a male lion linked to a series of livestock attacks that caused fear and anxiety among residents of Songea Hamlet, Mkarango Village in Kilwa District, Lindi Region.
The lion was captured at around 4:00 a.m. on August 21, 2026, by a TAWA wildlife monitoring and control team from the Selous-Miguruwe Station.
The operation followed reports of repeated livestock attacks by two lions that had been moving around Mkarango Village and surrounding areas.
According to the TAWA team, the two lions had attacked and injured 24 cattle and killed 17 others at different times, raising concerns among local residents and livestock keepers.
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TAWA said the capture of the male lion was part of ongoing efforts to protect communities and their property while reducing fear and addressing challenges posed by dangerous and destructive wildlife in different parts of the country.
The captured lion is expected to be relocated from the area and transferred to a designated facility for keeping live wild animals in Dar es Salaam Region.
Meanwhile, TAWA’s wildlife control team continues to track the second lion, which escaped during the operation.
The team is conducting further searches in an effort to locate and safely control the animal to prevent additional attacks on livestock and potential threats to residents.
TAWA has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining safety and peace in Mkarango Village and other areas facing challenges associated with dangerous and destructive wildlife.
The authority has also urged communities living near wildlife areas to remain vigilant and report wildlife incidents to the relevant authorities so that appropriate measures can be taken promptly.
