Zambian Fisherman Dies After Crocodile Attack While Fleeing Elephants Near Luangwa River

Luangwa River in eastern Zambia near South Luangwa National Park

A routine fishing trip turned tragic in eastern Zambia after a 52-year-old man was killed by a crocodile while trying to escape a herd of elephants near the Luangwa River, police have confirmed. The incident occurred on Wednesday in an area bordering South Luangwa National Park, one of Africa’s most wildlife-dense conservation zones. Eastern Province police chief Robertson Mweemba said the victim, Dean Nyirenda, had been returning from the river with two friends when they suddenly encountered a herd of elephants along the riverbank.

Fearing an attack, the three men fled in different directions. In a desperate attempt to escape the charging animals, Nyirenda jumped into a nearby stream connected to the Luangwa River.

Moments later, he was attacked by a Nile crocodile, which bit deeply into his right thigh.

Despite the serious injuries, Nyirenda reportedly fought off the crocodile by striking it with a stick he was carrying. He managed to pull himself out of the water, but was already bleeding heavily.

His two companions, who had watched from a distance, rushed to assist him once the immediate danger had passed. They carried him away from the riverbank and attempted to stem the bleeding using makeshift first aid. Nyirenda later died from his injuries before medical help could be reached. Wildlife officers who examined the scene confirmed that he suffered deep bite wounds to the right thigh, leading to severe blood loss.

Conservation officials say the Luangwa River is home to one of the highest concentrations of Nile crocodiles in Africa. The surrounding region also supports large populations of elephants, increasing the risk of dangerous encounters for nearby communities. Human-wildlife conflict has been rising across parts of Zambia as fishing, farming, and settlement activities increasingly overlap with protected wildlife corridors.

During dry seasons, animals frequently move closer to rivers, bringing them into direct contact with people. Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant when operating near rivers and national parks, warning that wildlife encounters can escalate rapidly and unpredictably.

Zambia, Crocodile attack, Human-wildlife conflict, Luangwa River, South Luangwa National Park, Elephants, Wildlife conservation, Africa news, Fatal accidents