Residents looking at skinned donkeys at a past function. (Photo/the-star.co.ke)
A section of residents of Kitui County has raised concern over increased incidents of illegal donkey slaughtering and skinning.
The incidents have been reported in different areas of the county with Wenzyee area of Mwingi West sub-county being one of the most affected areas. The residents have attributed the illegal activities to the Chinese black market where donkeys’ hides are sold.
Donald Kituku Caritas Kitui-Mtunze Punda project coordinator has condemned the killing of the animals, adding that a stern action will be taken against those found guilty of the offense.
“There was an attempt to skin a donkey alive at the area. The perpetrators of the illegal business attempted it at night as the donkeys were kept in an isolated location,” said Kituku, as quoted by MediaMax Network.
The killers of the animals have been making deep cuts on their forelimbs in a bid to demobilize them before they are killed. On his part, Bernard Waweru, a Caritas Vet, said that the cases have been alarming, adding that criminals behind the activities will face the full wrath of the law. He also said that the killing of the animals is unacceptable considering the role they play in the daily lives of the residents.