The Ngorongoro Nature Reserve Authority (NCAA) of Tanzania said that 10 lions were found dead on September 18 (local time) in the Ndutu area of the Ngorongoro Nature Reserve - a world heritage site recognized by UNESCO.
According to initial investigation results, the lions may have died suspected of poisoning. Experts are continuing to investigate to determine the exact cause of the incident, and clarify the individuals involved.
Ngorongoro has long been home to nomadic communities. In recent years, the management and conservation of this area has received much attention, especially since the Tanzanian government implemented a program to relocate a part of the population in 2022.
According to the Tanzanian government, population growth is adding pressure on the habitat of wildlife. The number of people living in Ngorongoro has increased from about 8,000 people in 1959 to more than 100,000 people today.
The incident in Tanzania occurred in the context that some wildlife sanctuaries in East Africa also recorded suspected cases related to toxic chemicals.
Previously, in June, at least 20 elephants died in Kenya's Amboseli ecosystem, near the Tanzanian border, suspected of pesticide poisoning. However, Kenyan authorities have not yet determined the cause of this elephant poisoning and have not yet concluded on external factors.
