Written By Lisa Murimi
One person was killed, and several others were injured following a confrontation between Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) rangers and herders on the evening of Sunday, December 29.
According to KWS, the incident occurred at Yakalicha, 16 kilometers inside Tsavo East National Park, during a routine patrol.
Rangers encountered 30 herders who had illegally entered the park.
The situation escalated when the herders, armed with poisoned arrows, reportedly attacked the rangers.
In the ensuing clash, one herder was fatally injured, while a ranger narrowly escaped death after being struck by a poisoned arrow.
KWS expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and regretted the breakdown of relations with the Kone community, traditionally known for its peaceful coexistence with the Service.
In their statement, KWS accused Garsen MP Guyo Ali Wario of inciting the local community to invade the park with false promises of land acquisition.
This conflict highlights ongoing tensions over grazing and water resources in the Tana Delta Sub-County, with Asa-Kone village serving as a hotspot for disputes.
KWS confirmed the incident has been reported to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, and the Service urged for peaceful dialogue to resolve the long-standing issues
