Forestry Development Authority (FDA) said, it has safely disposed the body of a male Crocodile that residents of Peace Community, in the Township of Caldwell killed over the weekend.
The controversial killing of the wildlife, sparked renewed debate over human-wildlife conflict, and wildlife protection laws.
According to reports, community members pursed, and killed the reptile after it was spotted moving through the residential settlement, defending their actions out of fear for the safety of children and families.
As a result of their action, FDA, wildlife advocate, and conservationists, have strongly condemned the act as a violation of national regulations protecting native fauna.
It is believed that the crocodile lived about a week in the community, before it was discovered by some residents, who said that the animal posed threat to young children, thus raising concerns among them. During the ‘burial’ ceremony in the Compound of the Agency, FDA Deputy Managing Director for Administration and Finance, Victor W. Kpaiseh, admonished Liberians to stop killing wildlife animals, and instead informed the appropriate authorities whenever they encounter any wild animals in their neighborhoods for proper intervention.
“Stop the killing of wild animals; they too deserve to live.”
Kpaiseh urged the public to refrain from harming displaced animals, and to immediately report wildlife encounters to FDA, the Liberia Special Wildlife Investigation Unit (SWIU), as well as local law enforcement officer for safe relocation.
He informed the public that no wild animal should be killed in such a cruel manner, as the crocodile, and other wild animals deserved to live; they are protected under the law.
He emphasized the urgent need for heightened civic education regarding urban encroachment, wildlife conservation, and adherence to legal frameworks governing protected species.
He expressed regret over the killing of the wildlife animal, and said, FDA has therefore, launched an immediate investigation into circumstances that led to the death of the animal.
FDA has meanwhile, launched an immediate investigation into circumstances surrounding the killed wild animal, and it is expected to established, and determine what action to take against those that reportedly killed the crocodile.
Macpherson C. Marbiah Writes.
