Maria David
RESIDENTS of Okatana have been warned against hunting wild rabbits as this could lead to paying a hefty fine or prosecution.
Speaking to Informanté, Okatana Constituency Councillor, Edmund Iishuwa, said that it was brought to his attention that some community members are illegally hunting wild rabbits, especially during the dry season.
He is, therefore, urging them to desist forthwith.
Iishuwa said that hunting rabbits is illegal as they form part of protected wildlife, and that those who kill them are making themselves guilty of a serious offense.
Iishuwa added that in the past, hunting was a cultural practice, but that it is now outlawed without the relevant paperwork and permits.
“Ovawambo men have a tradition of hunting rabbits and other wild animals during the period from August to October, however, the practice is now illegal and people should refrain from getting involved in such criminal activities,” he said.
Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism spokesperson, Romeo Muyunda, said that anything in the wild requires a permit to hunt.
Muyunda further indicated that any person found hunting wild rabbits can be fined or prosecuted for illegal hunting.
