The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) was on Wednesday forced to issue a statement following a shooting incident involving a Forest Ranger that left one dead and another seriously injured.
In a statement, KFS acknowledged the tragic incident which took place at around 7.30 am on Monday at the Eburu Forest in Nakuru County.
According to KFS, the investigations into circumstances leading to the shooting have commenced and the officers involved have already recorded a statement at the Gilgil Police Station.
“The incident took place inside the forest where two people were accosted by Forest Rangers on duty, one escaped and the other person was unfortunately fatally shot,” read part of a statement issued by KFS.
According to the agency, the officers involved had already been arrested and are set to be arraigned at the Naivasha Law Courts on December 14.
"KFS appeals to the public to remain calm during this period and wait for the outcome of the investigation," KFS noted.
The Forest Service further appealed to the public to observe conservation rules.
"The public is also reminded to observe the law as per the Forest Conservation and Management Act, 2016 which prohibits access to gazetted forests between 6.00 pm and 6.00 am," read the KFS statement in part.
"Kenya Forest Service staff will continue to uphold Human Rights -Based Approach (HRBA) in all operations."
KFS's statement comes hours after residents of Eburu village staged demonstrations in protest against the shooting and killing of their constituent.
The angry residents brought down a section of the Eburu Forest electric fence even as they demanded action against the perpetrators.
Following the escalation of protests, Gilgil Deputy County Commissioner Willy Cheboi noted that investigations into the shooting had begun vowing to take action against those involved.
