AYV News, April 7, 2026
The Executive Director of the National Protected Area Authority (NPAA), Mr. Sheikh Ahmed Tunis, on an unannounced visit engaged the leadership of the Mile 91 Police Division following reports surrounding the killing of a chimpanzee in the Mile 91 community.
The visit followed unconfirmed reports circulating on social media and other media platforms regarding a wildlife-related incident in the community. In line with NPAA’s mandate to protect and conserve Sierra Leone’s protected areas and wildlife, the Executive Director visited the police division to ascertain the facts surrounding the incident.
During the engagement, the Local Unit Commander (LUC) of the Mile 91 Police Division provided a detailed account of the events leading to the killing of the animal. According to the police, at about 10:00 p.m., residents reported that a chimpanzee had entered the community and was posing a threat to the safety of people in the area. Police personnel were immediately dispatched to the scene.
However, upon arrival, officers found the situation already escalated, as some community members were determined to kill the animal. Despite efforts by the police, the situation could not be brought under control, and the chimpanzee was eventually killed by members of the community.
The police further clarified that contrary to reports alleging that a child had been killed during the incident, there was no official report of any fatality caused by the animal.
Speaking during the visit, Mr. Tunis explained that increasing human activities within protected areas often force wildlife out of their natural habitats and into nearby communities. He emphasized the need for professionalism and prompt coordination in handling similar incidents in the future.
“Chimpanzees are our national animals and should be protected,” he stated.
The Executive Director also thanked the police leadership for clarifying the allegations circulated by some media houses and bloggers, and assured them of continued collaboration and stronger engagement on wildlife conservation and protection issues.
The animal, identified as a female chimpanzee, has since been handed over to the Paramount Chief.
