KOTA KINABALU – The issuance of hunting permits in Sabah has been further suspended following the African swine fever (ASF) outbreak among domestic swines in Pitas, some 176.4km from here.
State Wildlife Department director Augustine Tuuga said the department is working with the state Veterinary Department to curb the infection in pig farms.
“We wish to remind all parties to not organise any hunting expeditions without valid permission.
“For now, such activities are considered illegal and should be reported to the Wildlife Department immediately,” he said in a statement here.
Last night, the Agriculture and Fisheries Ministry declared the ASF outbreak involving domestic pigs in Pitas and the culling of the livestock would start as soon as possible.
Recently, the Wildlife Department announced the discovery of some 29 bearded pigs or wild boars dead in the forests of Kinabatangan, Sugut and Paitan.
There is no data suggesting the deaths of the wild boars were linked to the ASF outbreak.
“All samples taken from the wild boars and tested by the Veterinary Department indicated negative for ASF.
“We are still trying to determine the cause of death and it is quite surprising to later discover ASF cases in Pitas,” said Tuuga.
He added that the hunting, selling and consumption of wild boars are not advisable for now while rubbishing a suggestion that consumption of domestic pork are banned.
“We are only advising the public to not hunt, sell and consume wild boars, not domestic pigs.” – The Vibes, February 24, 2021
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