Government Responds to Outrage over Brutality by Forest Rangers

The Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry, Aden Duale, has condemned a disturbing video circulating online that shows Kenya Forest Service (KFS) rangers violently confronting a citizen accused of illegally transporting firewood in Lunga Lunga, Kwale County. In his statement, Duale emphasized that while the government is committed to combating forest crimes such as illegal logging, any acts of brutality that violate human rights and dignity are unacceptable.

“In as much as the Government is firm in its determination to end all forms of forest crimes including illegal logging, such brutal acts that are clearly a violation of human dignity and rights cannot be condoned,” Duale said in a statement on X.

Duale acknowledged the prompt action taken by KFS to interdict one ranger involved in the incident but noted that the video clearly shows multiple rangers participating in the assault. He has directed the Chief Conservator of Forests to immediately suspend the other officers involved, in accordance with established protocols.

The Kenya Forest Service confirmed that two additional officers have been interdicted in connection with the incident at the Gonja forest outpost. This brings the total number of KFS staff suspended to three. Additionally, a community forest scout implicated in the harassment has been stripped of his duties and barred from accessing the forest. Investigations also revealed that the chairman of a local community group played a role in the incident, and he will also be prohibited from entering the forest.

The Kenya Forest Service reiterated its commitment to a human rights-based approach in all interactions with communities and stakeholders. The agency encourages the public to report any incidents of misconduct or corruption to the nearest police station or via email at [email protected].