The Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) has strongly condemned the alleged killing of vultures by one of its own soldiers, calling the act unlawful and completely against the values of the institution.
In a statement issued on Thursday, GAF said Lance Corporal Jallow Alieu and a civilian, Mr. Ebrima Khan, are both in custody following reports that they hunted and killed a number of vultures, allegedly for ritual purposes. Jallow is currently being held by the Military Police, while Khan is in police custody.
“This act is not only unlawful but also goes against The Gambia Armed Forces values, professional standards, and commitment to environmental protection and biodiversity conservation,” the statement read.
According to GAF, the Chief of Defence Staff and the High Command have “unequivocally” condemned what it described as an “ungodly act” and have distanced the military from the actions of the individuals involved.
The statement further emphasized that the killing of vultures is a clear violation of the Wildlife Conservation Act and Animal Welfare Law of The Gambia, in addition to several international agreements protecting endangered species.
“The GAF has zero tolerance for actions that violate these laws and harm the country’s wildlife and endangered species,” said Captain Kemo Kanuteh, Acting Public Relations Officer.
An investigation has been launched and disciplinary measures are expected to follow, in line with military regulations and national laws.
The Gambia, home to several endangered vulture species, has been battling the illegal trade in wildlife parts, which conservationists warn is pushing these critical scavengers closer to extinction. Vultures play a vital role in ecosystems by disposing of animal carcasses and limiting the spread of disease.
GAF assured the public of its continued cooperation with government institutions, environmental agencies, and the wider community to protect the country’s wildlife and natural heritage.
