KOTA KINABALU – WWF-Malaysia has commended the Sabah Forestry Department’s valiant efforts, following a raid that led to the capture of 14 men, including a former MP, for hunting without a proper permit.
“This recent exercise not only shows the department’s dedication to the protection of forest and wildlife, but also its impartiality in carrying out its duties.
“Even amid the mounting pressure of arresting high-profile suspects, the forestry rangers stood their ground and did what was necessary because just as the forest and all its natural resources belong to all, the laws that govern its protection also apply to all,” said WWF-Malaysia conservation head for Sabah Robecca Jumin.
The organisation did not name who the former MP was.
Jumin, meanwhile, urged the department to ensure a fair and just probe to see to it that the offenders feel the full extent of the law, if any crime has been committed.
She also hailed police for conducting an internal investigation on its own officers involved in the illegal hunting, which saw the involvement of four police officers.
The 14 men were arrested over illegal hunting in a commercial forest reserve in Kalabakan, Tawau, last Sunday. – The Vibes, March 19, 2021
