
By Elishamai A. Ziumbwa
The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks) has dismissed rumours claiming a lion had escaped from the Chinhoyi Caves lion enclosure in Mapako suburb, Mashonaland West.
Social media was awash with news that a lion was roaming free in the area, but Zimparks has set the record straight.
In a press statement, the authority’s spokesperson Tinashe Farawo confirmed that a full inspection was carried out in Mapako and no trace of a lion was found.
“We would like to assure the public that the Chinhoyi Caves lion enclosure currently houses two lions, both of which are secure,” said Farawo.
He further urged residents to remain calm and avoid spreading misinformation.
“The safety of communities and their wildlife is a priority, and we urge the public to avoid spreading unverified information, as it can cause unnecessary panic,” he said.