Environmentalists have urged the Department of Wildlife Conservation to immediately investigate alleged irregularities and suspected poaching incidents inside Kumana National Park.
According to concerns raised by visitors, several gunshots were reportedly heard on the night of Feb. 6 from areas near campsite grounds within the park. The following morning, safari tourists claim they observed two deer that had allegedly been shot and butchered near an internal access road.
Wildlife advocates say such incidents are unprecedented inside the protected area and warn that weaknesses in park administration may be enabling illegal activities. They further allege that adequate preventive measures have not been taken despite the seriousness of the situation.
In a separate incident on Feb. 13, visitors reported seeing heavy smoke rising during daytime hours from the vicinity of the Bowatta Galge area, raising further concerns among tourists.
A group of foreign visitors reportedly cut short their safari after witnessing the animal carcasses, according to sources.
Environmental groups caution that continued irregularities could threaten wildlife conservation efforts and damage the park’s reputation as a key eco-tourism destination.
They have called on the Department of Wildlife Conservation to conduct an urgent probe, strengthen patrols and ensure stricter enforcement to safeguard wildlife within the park. (Newswire)