The Ministry of Interior and National Administration has confirmed that an investigation is underway into the fatal shooting of Issack Abdulla Jarso by Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) rangers during an eviction operation in Tsavo East National Park. The incident, which occurred on December 29, 2024, has sparked public outcry and renewed calls for accountability in wildlife protection operations.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen revealed that the operation involved 23 KWS rangers who confronted Jarso, his family, and friends at his manyatta. A physical altercation ensued, culminating in the fatal shooting of Jarso. The incident was reported to Garsen Police Station by the area sub-chief, and officers who responded to the scene found Jarso’s body with a gunshot wound to the upper right thigh. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Four spent cartridges were recovered at the site, and the body was transferred to Malindi Sub-County Hospital mortuary for a postmortem, which confirmed death by gunshot injury.
Statements have been taken from key witnesses, including Jarso’s wife, friends, and brothers, as well as all the rangers involved. The rifles used during the operation have been sent to Nairobi for ballistic testing, though results are still pending. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is leading the inquiry under file No. 4/2024 and has forwarded the case to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), who has requested additional information, including the ballistic report.
CS Murkomen assured Parliament that appropriate legal action will be taken against any KWS officer found culpable once investigations are complete. He also outlined steps the government is taking to prevent such incidents in the future, including joint sensitisation forums, enhanced patrols, and improved coordination among security agencies.
Additionally, Murkomen emphasized the need to strengthen community policing through the revitalisation of Nyumba Kumi clusters and the promotion of public trust in law enforcement.
The CS was speaking before the National Assembly Committee on Administration and Internal Security.
