𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐇𝐞𝐥𝐝 𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝟏𝟖 𝐄𝐥𝐞𝐩𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐀𝐦𝐛𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐢

Four people are being held for questioning as authorities investigate the deaths of 18 elephants across Kenya’s Amboseli ecosystem, with preliminary tests raising concerns that poisoning may be involved.

The deaths were recorded at several locations in the ecosystem between June 24 and July 24, 2026, according to the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).

KWS said seven elephants were found dead inside Amboseli National Park, seven at Kimana Sanctuary, three in Kitenden and another at Motikanju Kuku Ranch.

Four of the elephants discovered inside the national park were found close to Kimana Gate. Authorities believe the animals may have been part of the same herd.

Initial laboratory analysis has indicated the possible presence of a poisonous substance. Earlier investigations had raised the possibility of cyanide poisoning after elephants were suspected of consuming tomatoes contaminated with pesticides from farms bordering wildlife areas.

However, authorities have cautioned that the findings are not yet conclusive. Further laboratory tests are being carried out to establish the exact substance involved and determine whether it caused the deaths.

The investigation is being conducted jointly by KWS, security agencies, investigators and scientific experts. So far, four people have been arrested as persons of interest.

During a search in Tikondo, Kimana, in Loitoktok Sub-County, investigators recovered several chemicals and other substances. Some of the chemicals were reportedly believed to have originated from a neighbouring country, while others were found without labels.

The recovered materials have been taken for scientific examination to determine their contents and establish whether they have any connection to the elephant deaths.

Authorities have warned that anyone found responsible for illegally killing or poisoning wildlife will face prosecution under Kenyan law.

The government has also announced plans to improve surveillance and strengthen cooperation between wildlife officers, security agencies and scientific institutions in areas considered vulnerable.

Officials also want tighter controls on the handling and movement of potentially dangerous chemicals, which could endanger wildlife as well as people living near conservation areas.

Investigators are continuing to examine the deaths and establish whether they resulted from a common cause.