Yesterday, things have been turned upside down in DR Congo. As reported in the Gorilla protection blog by Diddy, Bilali's little son has been killed accidentally by some silverbacks fighting. And even worse, last night at 3 am (Congo time), Bikenge Patrol Post was attacked by rebels who both looted the Patrol Post and also disarmed Troop III of the Advance Force. At five in the morning, the camp of Patrol Post Jomba was then also surrounded by rebels, who have been stationed in the area of Runyoni and Chanzu for this last week. They attacked the camp taking 17 weapons, 5 handsets and 6 mobile phones.
The rangers are using what vehicles they have to try and evacuate the guards and their families from these two patrol posts, as well as from the Bukima Patrol Post, which is now very likely to also be a rebel target.
Unfortunately because of these circumstances, they are now unable to work in the Gorilla Sector.
The BBC reports that Laurent Nkunda has declared war on the DR Congo government: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/6974362.stm
I hate to bring such horrible news. The rangers and the gorillas are in my prayers.
Please know that we are continuing with our auction as scheduled. After this war they will need our help more than ever.
~ Robin Andreae
About Our Organization
- Art Helping Mountain Gorillas
- We are a group of 32 artists and growing who have responded to the brutal slaying of 4 of the Rugendo family of Mountain Gorillas. We are donating a percentage from the sale of our artwork to Wildlife Direct. 100% of our donation minus the 2.5% for the credit card fee will go to help the rangers. In the last ten years over 150 Congo rangers have been killed. Many of them have not seen a paycheck in months. They are willing to lay down their lives for the gorillas. With our art we want to help these brave men.
2 comments:
You can count on our assistance as artists and writers dedicated to protecting these endangered Mountain Gorillas. Our prayers go out to the rangers and their families for a safe deployment and return to the Gorilla habitats once the fighting is over. We won't be discouraged by these tragic events. It will only make our resolve stronger! Best wishes, Skye Ryan-Evans
The plight of the gorilla is one of the saddest of all animals on the planet! Thank you for sharing with us!
Kimberly Edwards :D
http://www.ExoticAnimalLover.com
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