*April 20th 2017, North Kivu, DRC*
Today at 16:00hrs in the northern sector, Virunga National Park’s Air Wing suffered an unforeseen incident on a routine flight of one of its aircraft, resulting in the injury of three Virunga staff.
All personnel are currently being treated for their injuries which are not considered to be life threatening. Their families have been informed and the utmost attention is being paid to ensuring their full recovery.
The accident underscores the routine dangers to Virunga staff dedicated to protecting and developing Virunga National Park. We ask that all focus be on the recovery of those injured at this time.
The work of the staff in Virunga National Park is one of the most dangerous in conservation; over 150 rangers have been killed in the line of duty, protecting the park.
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