Africa-Press – Gambia. A member of the Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) and a civilian have been arrested over allegations of killing and mutilating vultures in the Foni Dobong area.
The suspects—identified as Lance Corporal Alieu Jallow of the GAF and a civilian, Ebrima Khan—were reportedly apprehended on Thursday by local residents. According to eyewitness accounts, they were found in possession of mutilated vulture remains, with the birds’ heads severed, allegedly for ritual purposes. The two were handed over to police at the Bwiam Station.
Captain Kemo Kanoute, Acting Public Relations Officer of the GAF, confirmed that military police have taken Lance Corporal Jallow into custody for an internal investigation. Khan remains in police custody as the civilian investigation continues.
The arrests come amid a troubling rise in reported vulture killings in recent weeks. Residents and conservationists have sounded the alarm after several headless carcasses were discovered in villages, warning that the practice threatens biodiversity and poses risks to public health.
In a press statement, the GAF said it had launched a full investigation into the matter and condemned the alleged actions.
“An in-depth investigation into the matter is underway, and the individual(s) involved will face appropriate disciplinary measures in accordance with military regulations and national laws,” the statement read.
The High Command further denounced the killings, describing them as “ungodly” and distancing the military from such conduct. “The Chief of Defence Staff and the High Command unequivocally condemn this ungodly act and disassociates the Gambia Armed Forces from such behavior.”
The GAF stressed that the killing of vultures violates The Gambia’s Wildlife Conservation Act and Animal Welfare Law, as well as multiple international treaties protecting endangered species. It reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward any acts that harm the nation’s wildlife.
“As a disciplined institution, the GAF upholds the highest standards of conduct, both in service and in the wider community,” the statement added.
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