Residents of Sachangwan in Molo Sub County, Nakuru County, are demanding justice after 12 cows allegedly disappeared under the custody of Kenya Forest Service (KFS) officers at Koibatek Forest Station. The community is calling on relevant investigation agencies and government leaders to intervene and help them recover their missing livestock.
According to records obtained by the complainants from Molo Police Station, the incident began when three herders were arrested for illegally grazing in Koibatek Forest. KFS officers reportedly seized 79 cows belonging to the herders. Following legal proceedings, the herders were fined Ksh.150,000, which they paid to secure the release of their livestock.
However, when the herders arrived at Koibatek Forest Station to reclaim their cattle, they found only 67 cows instead of the original 79. The disappearance of the 12 cows has sparked outrage among the residents, who accuse KFS officers of theft.
The affected herders argue that pastoral farming is their primary source of livelihood, and the loss of their cattle has caused them significant financial hardship. They are demanding accountability from KFS and urging authorities to expedite investigations into the matter.
“We followed the legal process and paid the fine, but now some of our cows are missing. Who took them? We want the government to intervene and help us get justice,” one of the complainants stated.
Local leaders have also weighed in on the matter, urging the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and other relevant agencies to look into the alleged misconduct by KFS officers. They insist that such incidents undermine trust in law enforcement institutions and call for swift action to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Efforts to reach KFS officials for comment have been unsuccessful, but residents remain adamant that they will not rest until they receive clear answers and their livestock is returned. The case highlights ongoing tensions between local communities and forest conservation authorities, raising concerns about transparency in handling impounded livestock.
As the investigation unfolds, all eyes are on law enforcement agencies to ensure justice prevails and the affected herders are compensated for their losses.
