Arusha - A pack of lions has invaded Terrat village in Simanjiro district and has eaten three cows while nine others have gone missing.

The village chairman Isaya Supuki said during the night of May 21 the lions invaded the homestead (Boma) of Sibitiek Matinda and ate a cow. They came again the following night and killed another for a second helping.

The village's Olaigwanan Lesira Sambuti said, the lions were a threat to the villagers and their animals as they had refused to leave their hideout in the woods. Steven Mjatta one of the anti poaching scouts confirmed the reports saying the lions had followed the other animals (their prey) that had immigrated to Terrat area for pastures due to prevailing drought conditions in Tarangire National Park.

The village leaders called on the government to send reinforcements to chase away the dangerous animals from their village.