The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has issued a clarification regarding the fatal shooting of a Form 3 student in Trans Nzoia County, refuting claims that one of its officers was responsible for the death. In a statement released on Tuesday, the service detailed the incident, which occurred on Monday at around 8 a.m. in the Makunga Forest block of Saboti Forest Station.
According to KFS, the shooting occurred during an operation to remove illegal invaders who had encroached upon the forest land to cultivate and build structures. The rangers, who were carrying out law enforcement duties, were confronted by a group of individuals armed with crude weapons. During the ensuing confrontation, one person was tragically injured by what is suspected to be a stray bullet.
The service strongly emphasized that the incident took place within a gazetted forest area under its management and not on a private farm, as initially reported. “The victim’s death was not a result of an intentional shooting by KFS officers,” the statement clarified, adding that investigations are ongoing, with the National Police Service involved in ensuring justice is served.
This incident follows a similar controversy just a month prior, when a KFS officer was accused of fatally shooting a civilian in Kiptunga Forest, Kuresoi South. The officer allegedly shot the civilian during a confrontation over firewood, after the civilian reportedly attempted to stab the officer with a knife.
In another case, three KFS rangers were charged with murder following the death of a man, Augustine Kipngetich, in Narasha Forest, Koibatek subcounty, Baringo County, in February 2025. The rangers, Robert Ngilimo, Hillary Bett, and McDonald Wafula, have all pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Despite these incidents, KFS has reiterated its commitment to managing and conserving public forests while respecting human rights. The service continues to work with the police to investigate all incidents thoroughly and ensure accountability.
