Two Killed, One Injured in Deadly Clash Between Residents and KFS Officers in Kakamega
The incident occurred after a dispute over the route a lorry transporting building sand was to use while leaving a sand depot located near a forest reserve. What began as a disagreement quickly escalated into chaos, culminating in a deadly exchange
By : Mweru Mbugua
Two people were killed and another seriously injured following a violent confrontation between residents of Mukulusu village and officers from the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) in Shinyalu Sub-county, Kakamega County
The incident occurred after a dispute over the route a lorry transporting building sand was to use while leaving a sand depot located near a forest reserve. What began as a disagreement quickly escalated into chaos, culminating in a deadly exchange
According to residents, KFS officers allegedly intercepted a tractor carrying sand from the reserve, triggering anger among locals who questioned why the sand and machinery were operating within the protected area. A resident, Boniface Khisa, said tensions rose when officers allegedly took control of the tractor, sparking confrontation with villagers
Another resident, Joan Khasiala, recounted hearing repeated teargas explosions before learning that two people had been fatally shot. She identified one of the victims as Godi and the other as her brother-in-law, Lisiekeli, who died at the scene
During the unrest, a motorcycle reportedly used by the KFS officers was set on fire. A third victim sustained serious gunshot wounds and is currently receiving treatment at Kakamega County Referral Hospital
Shinyalu Sub-county Police Commander Daniel Mukumbu confirmed the incident, stating that the officers fired in self-defense after being attacked by members of the public. He added that investigations are ongoing and that anyone found culpable whether officers or civilians will face the law
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Shinyalu Member of Parliament Fred Ikana condemned the actions of the KFS officers, accusing them of routinely harassing residents. He emphasized that security officers are sworn to protect citizens, not harm them
The incident has heightened public concern over the conduct of security agencies, coming amid growing scrutiny of police actions nationwide. Investigations into the Kakamega clash are ongoing as authorities seek to establish the full circumstances surrounding the deaths
