Prince William has released a statement expressing his deep sorrow following the fatal attack at Upemba National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Five staff members lost their lives during an armed raid on the park earlier this week.
In his message, the prince wrote: "I am profoundly saddened to hear of the tragic loss of life at Upemba National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, following an armed raid of the park earlier this week.
"Environmental protection has become one of the most dangerous jobs on the planet and the bravery of those on the frontline of conservation must never be forgotten.
Prince William has released a statement expressing his deep sorrow following the fatal attack at Upemba National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
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"My thoughts are with the families and friends of the park staff who lost their lives defending our natural world. -W"
The assault took place on March 3 when MayiMayi militia fighters stormed the park's headquarters at Lusinga, stealing equipment and causing significant damage to infrastructure.
Upemba National Park ranks among the most significant conservation areas in the DRC, and the violence highlights the growing threats confronting rangers and those dedicated to protecting the environment worldwide.
The prince has long championed the cause of wildlife protection workers and presented a documentary series called Guardians last year, which focused on the lives of wildlife rangers.
The Prince of Wales has long championed the cause of wildlife protection workers.
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The deadly incident serves as a stark reminder of the perils facing conservation staff across the globe.
In May 2025, Prince William launched a groundbreaking new docuseries titled 'Guardians'.
The six-part series aims to redefine our understanding of rangers and nature protectors by showcasing their vital yet often unseen work in conserving biodiversity across the globe.
As the brainchild of the Prince, who has voiced both the trailer and episode introductions, the series offers viewers exclusive access to the lives of these environmental defenders.
Prince William launched a groundbreaking new docuseries titled 'Guardians'.
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Each episode highlights the pivotal role these inspirational individuals play in safeguarding the planet's most threatened environments, from remote rainforests to snowy mountains.
The series was co-produced with award-winning studio ZANDLAND and took viewers to some of the most breathtaking yet challenging locations on the planet.
Filmed in the very environments these guardians call home, the documentary provides intimate insights into their daily lives and the significant sacrifices they make to protect threatened environments.
Prince William, drawing on his decades of experience in nature conservation, expressed his deep appreciation for rangers: "I've had the privilege of meeting a number of rangers throughout my life and have seen firsthand the vital work they do. Yet their stories are often overlooked or misunderstood."
He added: "The rangers we meet in this series are an inspiration to us all. These are the unsung heroes – the true Guardians of the natural world, defending nature and the future of the planet for all of us."