SSPDF soldiers arrested transporting bush meat in ambulance

Wildlife authorities condemn soldiers for using military ambulance and equipment, saying such actions violate wildlife laws and promises to press for legal consequences

By The City Review

Wildlife authorities arrested four soldiers from the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces after they were found with large quantities of meat in a military ambulance along the Juba-Bor road.

Maj. Gen Khamis Adhiang Diing, the Director General of Wildlife Conservation and Tourism said illegal wildlife trade along the highway had become a major concern, necessitating action from relevant authorities.

He condemned the soldiers for using a military ambulance and equipment, saying such actions violate wildlife laws. The suspects have detained as investigations continue to ascertain the origin of the meat and any other accomplices. “No one is above the law. If investigations confirm wrongdoing, those involved will face the full force of the law regardless of their positions or affiliation,” he said.

The wildlife officer urged the public to work with law enforcement agencies and conservationists to protect wildlife and the country’s natural resources.

In September last year, wildlife officials captured two private vehicles carrying more than 500kilograms of wild meat along the Juba-Bor road, exposing the huge toll poaching is taking on the country’s biodiversity.

South Sudan is home to an abundant wildlife and vast untouched natural beauty. Endowed with six national game parks and 12 game reserves, the country harbours Africa’s largest wetland. However, conservationists have increasingly warned that the country is rapidly losing its wildlife population to illegal poaching and animal trafficking.

To combat such vices, authorities have in recent years launched massive crackdown on poaching, and partnered with various bodies to initiate programs aimed at conserving wildlife.

The Ministry of Wildlife in February last year partnered with Jonglei State wildlife authorities on a wildlife tourism initiative to monitor wildlife movements and combat illegal poaching.

“We have been talking to the community since August last year, explaining that their actions are against wildlife conservation and could deter tourism in Bor. Unfortunately, some poachers refuse to listen,” said Maj. Gen. David Deng Adol, the director of wildlife conservation and tourism in Jonglei State.