Gambiaj.com – (Banjul, the Gambia) – The Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) has strongly condemned the actions of one of its personnel accused of participating in the killing of vultures in Dobong village, Foni Kansala District, for alleged ritual purposes, stressing that the institution does not tolerate such conduct.

Two men – Lance Corporal Jallow Alieu, stationed at Yundum Barracks, and a civilian identified as Mr. Ebrima Khan – were apprehended on Thursday by villagers after being caught with mutilated vulture remains.

They were handed over to the Bwiam Police Station. Local sources say the grisly find sparked outrage in the community and renewed calls for tougher enforcement of wildlife protection laws.

In a statement, the GAF expressed “deep concern” over the incident, describing the act as “ungodly” and “contrary to the institution’s values, professional standards, and commitment to environmental protection and biodiversity conservation.” The military confirmed that Lance Corporal Jallow is in Military Police custody, while his civilian co-accused is being held by the police.

“The killing of vultures violates the Wildlife Conservation Act and Animal Welfare Law of The Gambia, as well as several international protocols protecting endangered species,” the statement read. “The GAF has zero tolerance for actions that violate these laws and harm the country’s wildlife.”

The Chief of Defence Staff and the High Command have distanced the military from the incident, stressing that an in-depth investigation is underway and that those found culpable will face appropriate disciplinary and legal measures.

The GAF reiterated its commitment to working with government institutions, environmental agencies, and the public to safeguard the country’s wildlife and natural resources.

This case comes amid growing concern over the decline of vulture populations in The Gambia, with conservationists warning that ritual killings and poisoning pose serious threats to the species’ survival.