OWN CORRESPONDENT, Harare | Tuesday 3.45pm
THE Zimbabwean government on Tuesday expressed its condolences to Britain over the death of a tourist mauled by lions and said it will take measures to ensure no others are killed by wild animals in its national game parks.
David Pleydell-Bouverie (18) was mauled by about 14 lions at Matusadona National Park, 400km northwest of the capital where he was camping with a professional guide. Reports indicate he was savagely attacked by a pride of lions led by an elderly female while sleeping early on Sunday morning.
Police late recovered parts of his body, including his head, ribs, liver and heart. Such incidents are rare in Zimbabwe — renowned for its game reserves which attracts hundreds of thousands of foreign tourists.
Environment and Tourism Minister Simon Moyo said in his condolence message to the British high commission in Harare that the government will try to ensure that such “devastating” tragedies do not occur again, “for our parks have been known for along time to be havens of peace and safety.”
“One can only imagine the anguish David went through at such an age when I am certain the world was just beginning to open to him its natural wonders and opportunities in the field of purposeful adventure,” Moyo said in his message.
“Your loss is our loss as well and we deeply mourn with his family,” Moyo said. — AFP
02