The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has launched investigations into reports of forest destruction and illegal logging at Saboti Forest Station within the Mount Elgon ecosystem.
In a statement on Thursday, August 13, KFS clarified that not all areas reported to have been affected by the illegal logging were impacted, noting that Shikhendu block remained unaffected while Makunga forest block was targeted.
"Within the reported areas, Shikhendu block has not been affected as reported online. However, Makunga forest block has been affected," the statement read.
KFS said the destruction in Makunga involved the overnight felling of 350 young trees, which were left on the ground after being cut down.
"The illegal felling of trees within Makunga forest block seems to be maliciously instigated by a few individuals, to incite the community, and 350 young trees were felled overnight and left on the ground," the statement added.
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KFS said security measures have since been strengthened in the affected forest area as investigations continue, warning that those found responsible will face legal action under the relevant forest conservation law.
"Protection and security has since been enhanced and those found culpable of the forest crimes will be arrested and charged as per the Forest Conservation and Management Act (amendment) 2026," the statement further read.
KFS also appealed to members of the public with information about the illegal logging to report it to the relevant authorities to facilitate the arrest of those involved.
"Those with information that may lead to the arrest of those involved in these activities are advised to report immediately to the Saboti Foresters office, the County Forest Conservator Trans Nzoia or nearby police station," the statement concluded.
This comes months after KFS responded to allegations circulating online regarding suspected logging activities in Kinyo forest in Baringo County.
In a statement on Saturday, May 23, the agency said officers from the Tenges Forest Station visited the location after images and reports online showed two felled trees within the forest area.
"Tenges Forest station staff have visited a site in Kinyo forest beat, Baringo County, that was depicted online with two felled trees," the statement read.
KFS explained that preliminary findings indicated the trees were targeted by local residents for domestic purposes rather than commercial logging activities.
"The team confirmed there was an attempt by local community members to fell the trees for firewood and to make bee hives. No charcoal burning or charcoal selling activities were found in the area as alleged," the statement added.
KFS noted that local forest officials are now engaging the community to strengthen awareness on environmental conservation and the protection of forest resources.
"The Forest station manager has called a meeting to sensitize the area residents on the importance of conserving and protecting forest resources. The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any incidents of illegal logging," the statement concluded.
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