Prince William reacts to Upemba National Park attack with rare personal message

Prince William posted a rare personal message mourning five park staff killed in an armed raid at Upemba National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo; the IUCN and WCPA also issued statements noting the risks faced by rangers and protected‑area staff.

Prince William posted a rare personal message on social media to pay tribute after an armed raid at Upemba National Park left park staff dead. Five park staff members were reported killed in the attack. International conservation bodies commented on the risks faced by rangers. Prince William has previously highlighted ranger work in a BBC docuseries. Reported facts: - Five park staff were killed in an armed raid at Upemba National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. - Prince William posted a rare personal message expressing sorrow and praising the bravery of frontline conservation staff. - The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the IUCN World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA) issued a statement noting that rangers and protected‑area staff often work at great personal risk. - Prince William previously worked with the BBC on a docuseries that highlighted the work and dangers faced by park rangers. Summary: The reported deaths and subsequent statements have drawn attention to the personal risks faced by those who protect natural areas. Undetermined at this time.