Poacher fined K21.2 million
Chikwawa Magistrate’s Court has fined Eliya Jofeni K21.2 million for killing a sable antelope at Majete Wildlife Reserve in the district.
Parks and Wildlife prosecutor Kennedy Chihana told the court that Jofeni, 39, shot the animal on September 4 this year at the wildlife reserve.
In court, Jofeni pleaded guilty to the three counts levelled against him, namely entering a protected area without permission, possessing a firearm without permission and killing an endangered species.
In his submission, Chihana prayed for a custodial sentence, saying the animal was valued at K21 million, under the National Parks and Wildlife Act.
He also said killing protected species is rampant in Chikwawa; hence, a stiffer punishment will deter other would-be offenders.
In his mitigation, Jofeni asked for leniency, saying he pleaded guilty and was a breadwinner for his family.
First grade magistrate Gladstone Chilundu agreed with the State and fined Jofeni K21.2 million or in default to spend three years in jail.
The convict failed to pay the fine and he has been sent to prison. Jofeni comes from Njolomola Village, Traditional Authority Kanduku in Mwanza District.
