Three members of the Namibian Defence Force were arrested on Friday in Mangetti National Park after they were caught with bags filled with dried game meat.
Ministry of environment spokesperson Romeo Muyunda said the park officials conducted a routine anti-poaching patrol and fence inspection in Mangetti National Park and found the three NDF members crossing the Mangetti fence to Mururani location with bags full of dried game meat of eland, kudu, and wildebeest without a permit.
He said the suspects nearly escaped,confirming that the game meat was not authorised.
It is alleged that the soldiers poached the kudu, eland, and wildebeest valued at N$22 450 using a service rifle and made biltong.
The suspects are all male, ages 28, 37, and 40. They are all members of the force deployed in Mangetti National Park.
They are expected to appear in Rundu Magistrate’s Court today.
“It’s incomprehensible and disappointing that those charged with protecting our wildlife and natural resources are the ones plundering them. There is no doubt that uniformed forces have been integral in the fight against wildlife crime, however, we have experienced situations where individuals are taking this responsibility lightly and indulge in illegal activities in our national parks,” said Muyunda.
He further said they condemn such incidents. The ministry has commended staff members who were very vigilant in the apprehension of the suspects. – vkaapanda@nepc.com.na