WILDLIFE: Dept should rescue injured animals

THE government should be commended for its patience and the manner it went about flushing out the terrorists in the east coast of Sabah.

It is sad that lives were lost. Our heartfelt condolences and sympathies go to the families who have lost their loved ones.

Malaysians from all walks of life are offering prayers for the safety of security personnel.

The use of jet fighters to bomb the terrorists' hideout was inevitable because of the guerilla tactics used by the terrorists.

Although the airstrikes may have helped our armed forces flush out the terrorists, it may have inadvertently destroyed our wildlife.

Although human safety is our priority, I am equally concerned for the wildlife that were caught in the crossfire. The National Parks and Wildlife Department (Perhilitan) should have a search-and-rescue plan for these injured animals.

Once the area has been declared safe, Perhilitan should move in to rescue injured animals and reduce their suffering. Some kind of veterinary assistance should also be provided to the people in the conflict zone who have animals that may have been injured.

It must be noted that the carcasses could give rise to disease outbreaks that may spread to humans.

Hopefully, the authorities will come up with a plan to rescue the wildlife trapped in the conflict zone.