Angry mob beat up forest officers

Kenya: An angry mob descended upon two forest officers for allegedly collecting unlawful revenues from them.

It is reported that the two officers have been collecting revenues from charcoal traders in Akala market and remitting it to Kisumu county forest services, following orders from its coordinator Erastus Kibuku.

The angry traders were contained by south Gem ward member of county assembly (MCA) Peter Ombee who stopped them before injuring the officers.

The MCA disclosed to the press that charcoal traders have been going through harassment from forest officers.

"These people have been charging Sh200 per three sacks of charcoal against the provisions of the Siaya county Finance law that put rates at Sh20 per sack. It is not fair to take a lot from the suffering Kenyan," said Ombee.

Ombee directed the traders to stop paying the levies to forest officers until the matter is resolved amicably.

The MCA warned that he would table the matter at the assembly terming the issue as unlawful and against the devolution that allow county governments to collect revenues from their own regions.

Jane Nyadenge,  a charcoal trade said that it is not fair to pay a lot of revenue since they hardly earn enough to take care of their families.

"It is not easy to give out money especially if it is for the wrong reasons. It is unfair that we are being charged. I hope our leaders will get a solution," said Nyadenge.

Job Otieno a charcoal trader warned that if no action was taken on the issue they will deal with it at their level.

"If you do not struggle to put food on your table it will not disturb you. The traders here are so tired of these people," said Otieno.