Lion trafficker convicted in Zimbabwe using DNA evidence from a single lion.

A Zimbabwe court convicted defendants in a lion-poaching case after forensic DNA from seized parts matched genetic data from a known lion killed near Victoria Falls; those involved received 24-month prison sentences.

A Zimbabwe court secured a conviction in a lion-poaching case after forensic DNA linked seized animal parts to a known lion killed near Victoria Falls. Authorities had recovered claws and other remains from suspects, and possession alone was not sufficient for conviction. Laboratory analysts at the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust, with support from TRACE and TRAFFIC, developed a full DNA profile that matched genetic data from the identified lion and formed the key evidence in court. Known details: - The court convicted defendants and sentenced them to 24 months in prison. - Analysts produced a full DNA profile from seized parts and matched it to the known lion killed near Victoria Falls. - The case is described as the first conviction based on forensic evidence tied to a single lion. - The Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust worked with TRACE and TRAFFIC on the DNA testing. Summary: The ruling is reported as a legal first, showing that DNA from an individual animal can be used in court to link seized remains to a specific killing. Organizations involved say the forensic approach may be applied more widely in wildlife prosecutions. Undetermined at this time.