One person has been killed after a group of armed herders attacked Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) officers at Yakalicha, Tsavo East National Park.
In a statement on Monday, December 30, KWS disclosed that the incident occurred on Sunday when the officers, who were on routine patrol, encountered the herders.
The wildlife watchdog noted the herders attacked the officers with poisoned arrows and one officer escaped death by a whisker after a poisoned arrow struck his firearm.
"The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) regrets to announce an unfortunate incident that occurred on Sunday, 29th December 2024, at Yakalicha, 16 kilometres inside Tsavo East National Park. During a routine security patrol, KWS officers encountered a group of over 30 armed herders who had illegally entered the park.
"In the ensuing confrontation, the herders attacked the KWS officers with poisoned arrows and advanced aggressively. Regrettably, one herder was fatally injured during the incident and one officer escaped by a whisker from being shot with a poisoned arrow that stuck on the firearm," KWS stated.
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The service sent condolences to the family of the deceased, maintaining that the incident was highly regrettable.
KWS noted that the incident was reported to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) offices in Mutomo, Kitui County and Garsen, Tana River County.
"Crime scene investigation teams are already at work to establish the circumstances surrounding this tragic event. KWS is cooperating fully with the DCI in their investigations," KWS explained.
It added, "KWS urges all communities to respect protected areas and work collaboratively to ensure the safety of wildlife, park personnel, and local residents."
The service affirmed that it is committed to fostering peaceful coexistence with the community near the park through regular engagements.
However, it cautioned that unauthorized entry into national parks is a criminal offense under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, Cap 376.
