The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has confirmed that investigations into the deaths of 16 elephants in Amboseli National Park are near conclusion, with preliminary laboratory findings pointing to cyanide poisoning. In a statement on Friday, August 7, KWS said the elephant deaths were reported between June 24 and July 31, 2026, across the wider Amboseli-Kimana-Kitenden area. The wildlife service noted that the affected animals were mainly adult females and calves that showed signs of weakness and partial paralysis in their hind limbs before dying. KWS disclosed that preliminary laboratory analysis by the University of Nairobi identified cyanide poisoning as the probable cause of the elephant deaths. "The Kenya Wildlife Service is committed to establishing the facts and keeping the public informed every step of the way," said KWS Director General Erustus Kanga.