The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has responded to allegations on social media claiming that its officers assaulted a man at forest stations in Elgeyo Marakwet County.
In a statement released on Monday, December 29, KFS said it is aware of claims that Bernard Kiplagat Tarus, also known as Kishoto, was assaulted at Yemit and Cheptongei Forest Stations on December 23, describing the allegations as misleading and inaccurate.
KFS clarified that the incident actually occurred on December 22 and was properly documented and reported through official channels, emphasizing that the claims circulating online omit critical facts about the lawfully recorded event.
Kenya Forest Service Responds to Claims of Man Being Assaulted While Illegal Logging. Photo: Couresy.
According to the service, the incident occurred during a routine patrol, involving an individual engaged in illegal forest activities.
KFS stated that its officers encountered Bernard Kiplagat Tarus, also known as Kishoto, while he was felling indigenous trees in a gazetted state forest with the intent of producing charcoal, an offence under the Forest Conservation and Management Act, 2016.
When officers attempted a lawful arrest, he reportedly resisted violently, using a panga to attack a forest ranger, who responded with reasonable force in self-defense.
The service dismissed claims that the suspect was mistreated or abandoned, confirming that he was provided medical attention at Iten Teaching and Referral Hospital.
Several tools allegedly used in the illegal activity, including a panga, axe, and saw, were recovered at the scene and preserved as evidence.
The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) moreover clarified that forest rangers are recognized public officers empowered to carry out lawful arrests in gazetted forests, and resisting arrest constitutes a criminal offence under Section 63 of the Penal Code.
KFS emphasized that its officers act within their constitutional mandate to protect public forest resources and are entitled to defend themselves when threatened.
The service warned against spreading misinformation online and stated that any further investigations will be handled by the relevant authorities.
