A man in southern Zimbabwe has been trampled to death while he and his two friends were trying to take selfies with elephants, the country’s state-run Chronicle newspaper reports.

Moses Ndlovu, 31, from Bulilima district near Plumtree, and his friends reportedly spotted three elephants - two females and a bull - on Saturday morning.

Police spokesman Philani Ndebele told the Chronicle the men had tried to herd the animals to an area where they could more easily take photos.  

"He called his two friends and they attempted to drive the elephants into a clearing at Bhagani Business Centre where they could take pictures."

Inspector Philani Ndebele

 

But the elephants charged the trio and the bull trampled Mr Ndlovu to death, the inspector said.

His body was found the following day by a passerby, who reported the matter to the village head.

"Jumbos are known to be dangerous animals and what these men did was risky. I would like to urge people to ensure that they take responsibility for their lives and desist from engaging in dangerous acts."

Inspector Philani Ndebele