In a shocking incident on Coquet Island off the Northumberland coast, an RSPB warden, Ibrahim Alfarwi, is under scrutiny after a video surfaced, showing him allegedly torturing and killing a seabird.
Witnesses claim he stepped on the bird’s tail for an extended period before wringing its neck and smashing its head against a rock.
Controversy Surrounds RSPB Warden’s Actions
The video, taken during the height of bird flu concerns in the summer of 2022, has ignited controversy, with eyewitnesses accusing Mr. Alfarwi of inhumane treatment.
Despite claims that he was following instructions to “humanely dispatch” the bird, the RSPCA and RSPB have expressed distress over the footage.
Eyewitness Account of the Incident
According to an anonymous volunteer who recorded the video, Mr. Alfarwi chased the sick Skua, held it for onlookers to take photos, and then proceeded to torture the bird by standing on its tail for around four minutes.
The witness alleges that this pattern of cruelty was repeated with a gull and a baby puffin. The eyewitness criticized Alfarwi’s actions, claiming he seemed to enjoy the process.
Response from Mr. Alfarwi
Mr. Alfarwi defended his actions, asserting that he followed instructions from his manager to end the bird’s suffering.
He claimed the bird was unwell and had been on the island for several days. Despite admitting to not wearing the correct PPE, he insisted the bird was quickly and humanely dispatched.
He further stated that his manager, accountable for the island at the time, no longer works for the RSPB.
RSPB and RSPCA Statements
The RSPB issued an apology, acknowledging the breach of their standards, and emphasized that action has been taken.
The organization cited the prevention of bird flu spread and the bird’s suffering as reasons for the warden’s actions.
The RSPCA, while understanding the challenges related to avian influenza, emphasized the priority of animal welfare.
Questions Surrounding RSPB’s Continued Employment of Mr. Alfarwi
Despite the RSPB’s response, questions linger about why Mr. Alfarwi is still employed by the organization.
MailOnline has reached out to the RSPB for further clarification on this matter.
The incident has sparked concerns among animal welfare advocates and raised broader questions about the treatment of wildlife on nature reserves.
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