The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has issued a public alert following reports of a hyena sighting along Mwananchi Road in Syokimau.

In a statement on Tuesday, May 12, KWS said response operations were immediately launched after residents reported spotting the animal on Sunday evening.

“Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) wishes to assure residents of Syokimau and surrounding areas that response operations are ongoing following reports of a hyena sighting on Sunday, 11th May 2026 along Mwananchi Road off Eastport Drive,” the statement read.

According to the agency, officers from its Problem Animal Control (PAC) unit were dispatched to the area to assess the situation and track the animal’s movements.

KWS said although the responding team did not directly encounter the hyena, evidence collected from the scene confirmed the animal had recently passed through the area.

“Although the animal was not directly sighted by the responding Problem Animal Control (PAC) team, fresh footprints confirmed its recent movement within the area. 

“Ground surveillance and monitoring have since been intensified, with preliminary indications suggesting the animal is moving through bushy isolated land behind JKlA towards Katani,” the statement added.

KWS moved to calm fears among residents, saying teams on the ground were continuing with surveillance and all necessary safety measures had been put in place.

At the same time, residents were urged to exercise caution and cooperate with authorities as monitoring operations continue in the area.

“KWS wishes to assure the public that all necessary precautionary measures are being undertaken and there is no cause for panic.

“Residents are however advised to remain vigilant, avoid approaching or provoking the animal, keep children under close supervision, and immediately report any wildlife sightings to the nearest KWS station, or local authorities,” the statement concluded.