An officer attached to the Wild Life Office in Hambantota lost his life after being shot at during a scuffle with a suspect during a raid.

The raid took place in the Walsapugala area early Tuesday morning, after information came to light that wild animals were hunted and sold to visitors.One suspect was arrested in the raid. It is reported that a firearm of an officer was discharged when he tussled with a suspect who attempted to flee.

The deceased officer has been identified as 43-year-old Assistant Wild Life Reserve Officer, Jagath Seneviratne. The All Island Wildlife Officers’ Association says that officers face a great risk when engaging in their duties.

Chairman of the All Island Wildlife Officers’ Association, Chaminda Priyalal Attanayake stated that it is challenging to serve in the Department of Wild Life Conservation as they need to take into account the harm caused to the environment and the animals, as well as the harm caused by poachers.

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