Seven hippopotamuses were killed by armed men near the Koleng River in Warrap state in the past month according to a community leader.

Mawien Biok, a Muol community leader, told Radio Tamazuj that wildlife authorities and county commissioner and chiefs were carrying out investigations into the unlawful killing of hippopotamuses in an attempt to arrest the perpetrators.

“Koleng River is having some things like magic in it, that’s why people don’t go there for hunting, but due to hunger some soldiers went by force and thieves also went for fishing, so seven hippos were killed” said Mawien.

He noted that a local magician called Kajrai has recently warned against any attempt to approach the Koleng River for the purpose of hunting.

The community leader explained that at least two citizens sustained injuries after the death of the hippopotamuses. He revealed that they plan to slaughter cattle to satisfy the Koleng River.