Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit
Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit, a non-profit organisation was established in 1999 and primarily focuses on combating wildlife crime in and around Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. A unique destination that sees fantastic coexistence between the people that call the city home, and the abundant wildlife that share the surrounding natural environment. However, this does not happen by accident and much work goes on behind the scenes to mitigate the ever-present poaching threat.
Our Mission
At the Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit (VFAPU), our mission is to protect and preserve the wildlife and natural ecosystems surrounding Victoria Falls through proactive, hands-on anti-poaching operations. We work tirelessly to prevent the illegal hunting of wildlife, remove snares, respond to poaching incidents, and support law enforcement efforts on the ground.
Guided by a deep commitment to conservation, community partnership, and long-term sustainability, we strive to safeguard vulnerable species, restore threatened habitats, and promote a future where wildlife can thrive safely in one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes.
Our Impact
VFAPU’s impact is driven by its hands-on anti-poaching methods, daily foot and vehicle patrols, strategic snare sweeps, wildlife monitoring, intelligence-led operations, and strong collaboration with authorities, which together have dramatically reduced poaching pressure around Victoria Falls. Through these efforts, VFAPU has removed thousands of snares, rescued injured wildlife, supported successful arrests and prosecutions, and built stronger community awareness around conservation. These combined methods have created a safer environment for wildlife and helped protect the ecological and economic value of the Victoria Falls region.
BOOTS ON THE GROUND
VFAPU’s most effective strategy is its year-round horse and foot patrols, which maintain a constant field presence to deter poachers, gather intelligence, respond to incursions, monitor wildlife, and help rescue snared animals alongside vets.
TECHNOLOGY IN THE FIGHT AGAINST POACHING
VFAPU relies on advanced technology for early detection, using AI-enabled cellular trail cameras to identify threats and send instant alerts that support rapid responses and arrests. Positioned along known poaching routes, these cameras monitor key access points.
WORKING WITH SPECIALIZED CANINES
VFAPU partners with the Take Action Trust to use specially trained K9 units for tracking poachers, assisting in patrols and detecting concealed wildlife products. These dogs have aided multiple arrests, and are a vital part of our anti-poaching operations.
INTELLIGENCE AND UNDER-COVER OPERATIONS
A key part of VFAPU’s anti-poaching strategy is intelligence gathering. With a high demand for bushmeat and wildlife products in the city, VFAPU relies on an established informer network and conducts undercover operations with plain-clothed rangers. These efforts provide crucial information on illegal activities
Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit Statistics
JANUARY TO DECEMBER 2025
Our Story
Charles Brightman, a local safari operator and conservationist, founded the Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit (VFAPU) in January 1999 in partnership with Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, responding to the severe poaching crisis at the time. Since then, VFAPU has worked closely with the National Parks and Wildlife Management Authority and the Zimbabwe Republic Police, achieving significant progress in protecting local wildlife.
What began with just three scouts has grown into a committed team of 18 full-time rangers who patrol roughly fifty square kilometres around Victoria Falls. These patrols run seven days a week, both day and night, tackling all forms of poaching.
Charles Brightman was a finalist for the Worldwide Vets Golden Star Award 2025, in recognition of his continued dedication and outstanding contribution to conservation. His tireless work in the field, commitment to wildlife welfare, and long-term impact on conservation efforts have earned him international recognition and reflect the vital role he plays in protecting wildlife and supporting those working on the frontlines of conservation.
The role of an Anti-Poaching Ranger is vital if we are to win the war against wildlife crime.
VFAPU rangers are vital because they provide constant on-the-ground protection for wildlife in the Victoria Falls area, removing snares, deterring poachers, and responding quickly to threats before animals are harmed. Their dedication keeps poaching pressure down, safeguards vulnerable species, and supports the long-term health of the ecosystem. By working closely with local communities and authorities, they also help prevent conflict and strengthen conservation awareness, making them essential to preserving the region’s natural heritage
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How You Can Help?
You can make a real difference in protecting Zimbabwe’s wildlife by supporting our anti-poaching rangers. Your donation helps fund their salaries, provide essential equipment, maintain vehicles, and ensure they have the supplies needed to patrol remote and challenging terrain. Every contribution strengthens their ability to safeguard the area keeping these iconic animals safe for generations to come.