By Sallieu S. Kanu
A female chimpanzee, Sierra Leone’s national animal and a protected species, was killed in the Mile 91 community late Sunday night, prompting swift intervention from the National Protected Area Authority (NPAA).
According to police accounts, the incident occurred around 10:00 p.m. after residents reported that the chimpanzee had strayed into the community and was perceived as a threat. Officers from the Mile 91 Police Division were dispatched, but upon arrival found the situation already escalated, with community members determined to kill the animal. Despite police efforts to de-escalate, the chimpanzee was eventually killed by locals.
Unverified reports circulating on social media had alleged that a child was killed during the incident. However, police clarified that no fatalities were recorded, and the only casualty was the chimpanzee itself.
In response, NPAA Executive Director Sheikh Ahmed Tunis paid an unannounced visit to the Mile 91 Police Division to ascertain the facts. He emphasized that human encroachment into protected areas is increasingly forcing wildlife into nearby communities, heightening the risk of conflict.
“Chimpanzees are our national animals and should be protected,” Mr. Tunis stated, underscoring the need for professionalism and coordination in handling similar wildlife incidents in the future.
The Executive Director commended the police for clarifying misinformation spread by some media outlets and assured them of stronger collaboration on conservation and protection efforts. The remains of the chimpanzee have since been handed over to the Paramount Chief.