The Conservation Unit of the Environmental Protection Agency of Liberia (EPA) on Monday, December 21, 2020 rescued a Black Backed Duiker captured from the wild in Bong County, Central Liberia.
The endangered animal species was being sold by one Jeremiah Forkpa in Sinkor for US$ 45.00, when Madam Danise Love Dennis, an employee of the EPA pretended she wanted to purchase it.
To avoid possible attack and resistance, Madam Dennis encouraged Forkpa to ride with her to her office where she had money to pay for Black Backed Duiker.
Disappointingly for Forkpa, when they got to the office, Madam Dennis requested the assistance of staff of the Conservation Unit, who immediately seized the animal.
Authorities of the Wildlife Section of the Forestry Development Authority (FDA), Wildlife Crime Taskforce and officers of Liberia National Police were immediately called to arrest Forkpa for violating the Wildlife Law of Liberia.
Forkpa absconded when he asked to use the bathroom prior to the arrival of the police.
The Wildlife Law of Liberia 2016 prohibits the hunting; eating and sale of protected animal species.
The rescued Black Backed Duiker would be turned over to authorities of Libassa Wildlife Sanctuary in Kpans Town, Marshall Highway in Margibi County, Hawa K. Walker, Assistant Manager of Conservation, EPA has disclosed.
The Libassa Wildlife Sanctuary was established in collaboration with FDA and Libassa Ecolodge.