Blogging About Critters Since 2007

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Mountain Gorilla Ranger Slain in the Congo

Protecting mountain gorillas in the Congo is dangerous work. Just last week, a 33-year-old ranger was killed by Mai Mai rebels.

Mai Mai rebels are described as community-based militia groups frequently involved in banditry. Another ranger was wounded in the attack and a rebel was captured. That arrest has resulted in several leads in the investigation.

"The Mai Mai are seeking to wear down the rangers because they don't want the park to exist. They want to cultivate and poach in the park," said Samantha Newport, communications director for the refuge.


The ranger's name was Safari Kakule, and he was called "exceptional." Here is a brief Youtube video of him. He left a wife and three children.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Anyone caught, and proved guilty of killing Mountain Gorilla's should be executed immediately.
The human population in that area is increasing,and the Gorilla's will soon be gone if drastic measures are not enforced. In my opinion the Gorilla's are much more important than the poachers, or any persons associated with them.

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