Authorities monitoring wildlife in northern Cameroon are facing a worrying challenge as a herd of elephants has invaded a regional capital.
According to preliminary information, in recent weeks there have been several attacks by elephants that been causing significant damage, such as the destruction of entire villages and, so far, at least two deaths.
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With an estimated population of 6,830 elephants, Cameroon is home to one of the largest populations of this endangered species in Africa, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
While conservation efforts have contributed to these numbers increasing in recent years, habitat loss due to plantations and expansion of villages leads elephants to move into areas inhabited by humans, destroying crops, houses and sometimes attacking the people.
Invasion of elegant causes deaths
Cameroonian forestry and wildlife authority representative Jean Nyemeg reported that a child was killed by elephants in a village near Maroua, the capital of the far north region of Cameroon.
Then the four elephants carried out two raids on the city of Maroua itself, causing further destruction.
Images shared on social networks show the tension caused by the presence of elephants, with people running and recording videos with their cell phones while the herd roams the streets.
However, according to the Reuters news agency, it is not recommended to trust some images that circulate on social networks, as they do not have their veracity proven.
Authorities are seeking measures to curb this elephant invasion and protect the local population.
This conflict between humans and elephants highlights the need to find sustainable solutions for harmonious coexistence between communities and wildlife, ensuring the protection of these endangered species and the safety of people living in the areas affected.