Wildlife authorities in Maridi State say the rate of illegal hunting of animal species at national game parks is on the increase in the state.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Friday, the state director of wildlife, Amos Taban Phillip claimed poachers who are killing animals in the southern national game park come from neighbouring Gbudue State.
The wildlife official has warned citizens living in neighboring Gbudue State against involvement in illegal poaching. “People have taken poaching as a business. They kill these animals, bring them to the market and sell them expensively,” Taban said.
“We have developed cooperation agreements with Gbudue State wildlife authorities to have a joint force to crack down on poachers. We are waiting for a go ahead from the national office,” he added.
Taban said anyone involved in illegal hunting of animal species will face justice.
The southern park has animal varieties which could be used for tourism and attract researchers if they are well preserved.
According to a report by the World Travel and Tourism Council, the tourism industry makes up a small share of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of South Sudan, only 1.8% as of 2013.