Guards Ambushed in Kaning’ina Forest Reserve
A violent ambush by villagers in Kaning’ina Forest Reserve, Nkhatabay, has left three forestry guards injured.
The incident occurred during a law enforcement operation against illegal deforestation, which poses a significant threat to the water supply for the Northern Region Water Board.
Northern Region Forestry Communication and Advisory Services Officer, Kelvin Chisaka says the forestry team had set up a camping patrol in response to rising deforestation, they managed to arrest three men and five women suspected of illegal logging.
However, villagers resisted the enforcement action, attacking the forestry officers.
“Three forestry guards sustained various degrees of injuries, but we managed to arrest one suspect,” Chisaka confirmed.
Illegal deforestation remains a major concern in Malawi, with reserves like Kaning’ina being targeted for timber and charcoal production leading to authorities intensifying efforts to curb the malpractice, but often face resistance from local communities.
Mzuzu Police Deputy Spokesperson, Cecilia Mfune, stated that police are holding the suspect in custody as investigations continue.
The incident highlights the risks faced by forestry enforcement officers in protecting Malawi’s natural resources.
Meanwhile, investigations and measures aimed at preventing further attacks while addressing the root causes of illegal logging in the region have been intensified.
