Update on Murdered Orangutans

I am sure many of you will already have heard the devastating news we
received when we arrived in Sabah last month to attend the Orangutan
Conservation Workshop. Three Orangutans living in the Shansrula Rasa Ria
private reserve had been brutally murdered and two others received
horrendous stab wounds. This terrible revelation hung over those attending
the conference and filled everyone with a deep sadness.

The Rasa Ria has, for many years, worked in conjunction with the Sepilok
Centre and the Wildlife Department, assisting with rehabilitation of
orphaned babies. On 18th August, between 2am and 5am a number of unknown
persons broke into the nursery in the reserve and maliciously stabbed Terry,
Mambo and Marree to death. Sherry and Tiger managed to escape with their
lives by climbing into the trees.

Early next morning, when this was discovered, the two injured babies were
airlifted to Sepilok for treatment and I am delighted to report that they
are recovering well after their ordeal.

The whole of Sabah was shaken and stunned by this unthinkable crime and the
police and ministers have pledged to find those responsible and bring them
to justice. The penalty for such a crime is a large fine and up to 5 years
imprisonment. The culprits have not yet been found but we will keep you
informed.

For more information and to help our mission please visit -
http://www.orangutan-appeal.org.uk/