Nairobi:Kenya Wildlife Service rangers have intercepted at least 20 dik-dik and 15 impala carcasses in Komorjila village, Tana North sub-county, during an operation aimed at curbing wildlife poaching and the illegal sale of wild meat.
According to Kenya News Agency, county warden Bakari George reported that the operation was initiated after receiving a tip-off from informers about illegal activities in the area. The rangers laid an ambush, which led to the discovery of a motorbike loaded with illegal wildlife meat. However, three suspects managed to escape the scene.
The rangers recovered a motorbike, two machetes, two slashers, 21 dik-dik carcasses, 20 dik-dik heads, 12 impala carcasses, and meat from three guinea fowls. George noted that Tana River County has been under investigation for its involvement in wildlife meat consumption.
The county warden warned residents against consuming wildlife meat, as it is illegal and poses health risks by potentially transmitting diseases to humans and livestock. He emphasized the importance of community collaboration in wildlife protection and managing human-wildlife coexistence for the benefit of the entire country.
George urged residents to stop killing wildlife, highlighting that these animals are valuable resources and their consumption is a legal offense. He stressed the consequences of possessing or transporting wildlife meat, urging the community to reject and condemn such practices.
