By Hou Akot Hou
Residents of Apada village in Nyalath Payam, Aweil Center County, Northern Bahr El Ghazal State, were alarmed last week by a wild fox that began preying on local livestock and eventually turned its aggression toward people.
Kur Mabior, whose child was bitten by the fox, rushed the child to Aweil Civil Hospital for treatment.
“The fox has been attacking people a lot and the people bitten are three. They are brought to the hospital and we are checking and monitoring their treatment,” said Mabior.
Mabior confirmed that three individuals, including his child, were bitten and are currently receiving medical attention.
In response to the threat, local residents organized a hunt for the fox, which was ultimately killed. However, fears remain as reports of another fox in the area have surfaced.
Mr. Machol Garang, the Nyalath Payam administrator, confirmed the incidents and stressed the importance of caution.
He noted that dense vegetation and flooding may have driven wild animals closer to human settlements.
“The recent floods could have forced these animals out of their natural habitats,” he explained.
Garang urged residents to remain vigilant, particularly when walking in forested areas.
He advised that children herding cattle or goats should carry protective sticks for their safety.
Additionally, the community faces tensions with the Department of Wildlife regarding the protection of wild animals.
Local residents express frustration over the presence of dangerous animals, fearing that their safety is compromised while the wild department is concerned about the potential extinction of wildlife if such animals are removed.