By Sharon Mwaniki
In the remote Dagahaley area of Garissa County, local authorities are actively pursuing four men who wrestled a giraffe to the ground last evening, June 4, before killing the majestic animal for game meat.
This shocking incident has stirred the community and highlighted the ongoing challenges in wildlife protection.
The incident came to light when vigilant residents of Kumahumato village noticed suspicious activity and promptly informed the local authorities. Responding swiftly, officers from Dagahaley Police Station rushed to the scene.
They arrived just in time to intercept a Toyota Alto, registration number KCT 727T, which was heavily overloaded with the giraffe carcass, struggling to navigate the rough terrain.
As the police cruiser approached, the four poachers panicked and fled into the surrounding thickets, abandoning their vehicle and the illegal haul. The poachers’ swift flight mirrored the desperate antics of warthogs seeking refuge from predators, leaving behind their spoils and the vehicle, which was promptly towed to the police station.
The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) officers were informed to handle the situation further.
The abandoned car was detained, and the confiscated giraffe meat was preserved as evidence.
Utilizing records from the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), the police identified the owner of the vehicle, setting in motion the necessary legal procedures to apprehend the culprits.
This incident underscores the stringent wildlife protection laws in Kenya. Since 1977, the Kenyan government, through Legal Notice No.120, has banned all forms of wildlife hunting. This ban was enacted to protect the country’s rich biodiversity and endangered species. Violating these laws is a serious offence, reflecting the government’s commitment to conservation.
In Kenya, hunting wildlife is strictly prohibited, with the only exception being game bird hunting, which requires a license from the Kenya Wildlife Service.
The actions of the four men not only violated these laws but also sparked outrage and concern within the community and among conservationists.
As the authorities continue their pursuit, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against poaching and the importance of community vigilance in protecting Kenya’s precious wildlife heritage.