GOLA KONNEH DISTRICT, Grand Cape Mount County — A wave of shock and fear has gripped residents of Gola Konneh District following the tragic deaths of two individuals who were reportedly attacked and killed by wild elephants.
The victims have been identified as Prince Younger, aged 47, and Peter Gbeye-Konah, aged 78. According to community sources, the deadly incident occurred when the elephants, which have been roaming freely in the district, invaded a local settlement, leaving destruction and sorrow behind.
Residents say the animals have been causing widespread disturbance in recent weeks, destroying crops, property, and endangering lives. The repeated encounters have now heightened fears among locals, many of whom are calling on county and national authorities to take immediate action.
“We are living in constant fear. The elephants move freely, and we don’t know who might be the next victim,” a resident lamented.
Local authorities have acknowledged the growing human-wildlife conflict and emphasized the need for swift intervention from the Forestry Development Authority (FDA) and relevant wildlife protection partners to prevent further loss of life.
Meanwhile, community leaders are urging the government to find a balanced approach that ensures both the safety of citizens and the protection of wildlife, as elephants remain an important but increasingly dangerous part of the region’s forest ecosystem.
