With some small exceptions, hunting is reportedly allowed throughout the country again
A ban on lion, leopard and elephant hunting in Zimbabwe—imposed after global outrage following Cecil the lion’s death—has largely been lifted after only nine days, South African news site news24.com reports, citing a leaked statement from the Zimbabwe Professional Hunters and Guides Association.
The statement reportedly says that “following some useful discussions between operators and the relevant Zimbabwean authorities, the suspension [on hunting] has now been uplifted throughout the country.”
The ban, put in place on Aug. 2, initially prohibited hunting outside of Hwange National Park and warned that officials would “arrest, prosecute, and ban for life any persons including professional hunters, clients and land owners who are caught on the wrong side of the law.”
There are some restrictions still in place, however, according to news24.com. “Collared” animals, like Cecil, are also to be left alone by hunters.
