By Ernest Kpehe Moibah | Bomi County
Authorities in Gbarpolu County have arrested eight individuals accused of hunting and killing an African forest elephant, a critically endangered species, in Sando Village.
The incident has sparked outrage among residents and conservationists, who describe the act as a grave assault on Liberia’s national heritage.
Regional Forester Kollie Bonner of the Forestry Development Authority (FDA) confirmed the arrests, identifying the suspects as Sunny Wennie, Junior Kolleh, Francis Boimah, Lasana Sesay, Musa Kamara, Sando Kollie, Massa Dukuly, and Alfred B. Massaquoi. The suspects are currently detained at the Tubmanburg Police Station, facing charges of illegal killing and possession of protected wildlife.
“During our preliminary investigation, the suspects denied involvement. However, one admitted seeing the elephant on his farm. Community testimonies and FDA field intelligence directly linked all eight to the killing, butchering, and illegal trade of the animal’s meat,” Bonner told Rural Reporter News Network.
Bonner emphasized that the crime goes beyond wildlife violation.
“This is not just a wildlife crime; it is an assault on our national heritage. These animals are protected by law, and anyone who hunts or trades them must face justice,” he said.
The investigation has taken a controversial turn with allegations that Gbarpolu County Senator Botoe Kanneh purchased elephant meat from the suspects. Bonner said community leads traced buyers and the senator’s name surfaced among those implicated.
“This demands a broader investigation,” Bonner asserted.
When contacted, Senator Kanneh declined to comment, stating only: “I am currently in a meeting and cannot speak to the allegations.”
The suspects are expected to be transferred to the Bopolu City Court for prosecution. Bonner confirmed that all eight remain in custody and will face trial under Liberia’s National Forest Reform Law of 2006.
Chapter 9, Section 9.12 (b)(I) and (d)(I) of the law explicitly forbids the killing, hunting, trading, or possession of protected species. Violations carry severe penalties, reflecting Liberia’s commitment to safeguarding its biodiversity.
Residents of Sando Village expressed shock and anger over the killing, noting the elephant’s symbolic and ecological importance. The African forest elephant is listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with populations declining due to poaching and habitat loss.
Local leaders have called for stronger enforcement of conservation laws and greater accountability for those involved in wildlife crimes. Conservation groups warn that continued poaching threatens not only Liberia’s fragile ecosystems but also its international reputation in environmental stewardship.
The case underscores the challenges facing Liberia’s forestry sector, where illegal hunting and trade remain persistent despite legal protections. Allegations of political involvement further complicate enforcement, raising questions about accountability at the highest levels.
As the suspects await trial, conservationists hope the case will serve as a deterrent against future violations. For communities in Gbarpolu and beyond, the killing of the elephant is a painful reminder of the urgent need to protect Liberia’s endangered species.
– Rural Reporter News Network
