The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has launched an investigation after 350 young trees were illegally cut down overnight in the Makunga forest block of Saboti Forest, Trans Nzoia County, in what authorities suspect was a deliberate attempt to provoke tension among local residents. [Source: Instagram post by Kenya Forest Service]
350 Young Trees Felled Overnight
The trees were cut down in mid-August 2026 in the Makunga forest block, which forms part of the vital Mount Elgon ecosystem.
According to initial assessments by the Kenya Forest Service, exactly 350 young trees were felled and left abandoned on the ground at the site.
KFS said preliminary findings suggest that the destruction may have been maliciously instigated by a small group seeking to incite local residents and create tension in the area. [Source: Eastleigh Voice report]
Security Patrols Increased
Following the incident, authorities increased security patrols across the affected forest zone as investigations continued.
KFS also moved to address separate claims circulating online that the nearby Shikhendu forest block had been cleared. Officials dismissed those reports, saying the alleged destruction in Shikhendu did not take place. [Source: The Standard report]
The clarification was intended to counter misinformation that could potentially fuel further tension in the area.
Public Asked to Provide Information
The Kenya Forest Service has appealed to members of the public with information about the illegal felling to report to the nearest forestry offices or police station.
Authorities are continuing investigations to establish who was behind the destruction and determine the circumstances and motive surrounding the incident. [Source: Kenya Forest Service Instagram post]
The incident underscores the ongoing challenges facing forest conservation in Kenya and the importance of cooperation between forest authorities, security agencies and local communities in protecting the country's critical ecosystems.
Sources: Eastleigh Voice · The Standard · Kenya Forest Service on Instagram
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