NAIROBI, Kenya – Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has directed the Chief Conservator of Forests to immediately interdict all Kenya Forest Service (KFS) rangers involved in the assault of a woman in Lunga Lunga, Kwale County.
The incident, captured in a widely circulated video, shows the rangers allegedly brutalizing the woman after accusing her of ferrying firewood from a forest.
The video sparked public outrage, with many condemning the rangers’ actions as inhumane and excessive.
KFS responded on Tuesday, terming the incident “unacceptable” and announcing the interdiction of one ranger.
“Investigations are ongoing, and all those responsible will be held to account,” the service said on its X account (formerly Twitter).
However, in a statement issued on Wednesday, CS Duale expressed dissatisfaction with KFS’s initial action, insisting that all involved rangers must face consequences.
“It is clear from the video that more than one ranger was involved,” said Duale. “I therefore direct the Chief Conservator of Forests to immediately interdict the rest of the rangers involved in accordance with established procedures.”
Duale emphasized that while the government is committed to combating forest crimes, such as illegal logging, violations of human rights will not be tolerated.
“Brutal acts that clearly undermine human dignity and rights cannot be condoned,” he added.
The incident has reignited discussions on the conduct of KFS officers and their approach to law enforcement in forest conservation efforts.
The incident, captured in a widely circulated video, shows the rangers allegedly brutalizing the woman after accusing her of ferrying firewood from a forest.
The video sparked public outrage, with many condemning the rangers’ actions as inhumane and excessive.
KFS responded on Tuesday, terming the incident “unacceptable” and announcing the interdiction of one ranger.
“Investigations are ongoing, and all those responsible will be held to account,” the service said on its X account (formerly Twitter).
However, in a statement issued on Wednesday, CS Duale expressed dissatisfaction with KFS’s initial action, insisting that all involved rangers must face consequences.
“It is clear from the video that more than one ranger was involved,” said Duale. “I therefore direct the Chief Conservator of Forests to immediately interdict the rest of the rangers involved in accordance with established procedures.”
Duale emphasized that while the government is committed to combating forest crimes, such as illegal logging, violations of human rights will not be tolerated.
“Brutal acts that clearly undermine human dignity and rights cannot be condoned,” he added.
The incident has reignited discussions on the conduct of KFS officers and their approach to law enforcement in forest conservation efforts.
