A tragic shooting incident in Kuresoi South, Nakuru County, has sparked tensions among villagers after two Kenya Forest Service (KFS) guards allegedly shot and killed a man found carrying firewood in Kiptunga Forest.
According to police reports, the incident occurred on the evening of Tuesday, March 1. The deceased was allegedly caught by the KFS officers while in possession of firewood, which is banned from harvesting as part of conservation efforts to curb deforestation.
Police spokesman Michael Muchiri stated that the confrontation escalated when the deceased reportedly attempted to attack the officers with a sharp knife, prompting them to open fire. The officers have since been disarmed, and their AK-47 rifles confiscated as investigations into the shooting continue.
The incident has heightened tensions in the region, with villagers raising concerns over the use of excessive force by forest guards. In the past, similar cases have led to violent protests, as residents continue to demand justice for victims of such confrontations. The deceased’s body has been moved to the mortuary for an autopsy as police probe the circumstances of the fatal shooting.
In a separate incident in Olpusimoru, Narok County, a 24-year-old man was killed during a fight with a relative over a land lease dispute. The victim, identified as Karino Kayoni, was struck on the back of his head with a Maasai rungu (club) during an altercation.
Kayoni sustained severe head injuries and was rushed to Olenguruone Sub-County Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The suspect fled the scene immediately after the attack, and police have launched a manhunt to apprehend him. The body has been moved to the mortuary pending an autopsy and further investigations.
Meanwhile, in Kabuki Village, Rachuonyo, Homa Bay County, the body of a 15-year-old boy was found floating in River Awach. Preliminary examinations revealed visible injuries on his left earlobe, eyelids, and around his mouth, suggesting possible predation by water animals.
Reports indicate that the teenager had been suffering from epilepsy, raising speculation that he may have drowned following a seizure. His body has been taken to the mortuary as authorities conduct further investigations into the cause of death.
These three separate incidents highlight growing security concerns in different parts of the country. Residents have called for thorough investigations and justice for the victims, emphasizing the need for enhanced measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
