A zebra in search of pasture was on Monday attacked, slaughtered and divided among villagers of Kalanzoni in Mbilini Sub-Location.
The Mbilini Sub-Chief, Antony Muasa said that he had arrived at the scene after being informed about the wild beast only to find that the villagers had divided the animal amongst themselves including its skin.
"It is a pity that my people do not know the value of the wild animals we have. They also took a risk of consuming the meat yet it was not yet approved as fit for human consumption by any health officer. The animal could have been sick and thus would have caused a tragedy," said Muasa.
The animal is said to have escaped with 2 other zebras from Kaviti Game Reserve following the dry conditions that have resulted to lack of pasture.
The 3 zebras had been grazing around Kalanzoni when 3 men spotted them and called upon others to assist in chasing the animals. Two of them were lucky enough to get away and run towards the rivers of Kathi and Kimutwa where they were later rescued by KWS officers.
The people of that area have been warned against such actions in the future by their area chief since they are neighbouring the 2 game parks; Kaviti and Kimutwa. He also emphasised on the fact he should be informed immediately before anyone takes action against spotted wild animals in the area.