Human-wildlife conflict: Minor trampled to death by elephant

KWS officers carry the body of a 16-year-old boy who was killed after being attacked by an elephant. [Michael Saitoti/Standard]

A 16-year-old boy was trampled to death by an elephant herd in Tamiyioi village, Samburu Central Sub- County. 

Police and Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) rangers rushed the teenager to Maralal County hospital where he was pronounced dead. He was herding livestock when the tragedy occurred on Wednesday.

A section of residents demanded that either the KWS establishes a rangers camp in the area or kill the animals, which they complained were causing them trouble.

“Something must be done to protect the people in the village. We urge KWS to establish a camp here or kill the wildlife.” a resident, John Lempusile said.

Mr. Douglas Leboiyare, chairman of Naramat community forest association, said: “We want officers from KWS to establish a camp here so that they can take care of wild animals because many wild animals have migrated to this region.”

Senior KWS warden Hamisi Almaf confirmed the incident asking residents to be extra vigilant against attacks from wild animals.

“There are many elephants at this time. I ask that you be careful to prevent future fatal attacks from elephants. If you see them, don’t move closer, just report to KWS.” He said.

Maralal sub county commander Alex Rotich advised people who settled on the boundaries of Kirisia forest to move away from the forest to protect themselves and property from attacks by wild animals.

Mr Almaf said KWS has begun plans to assist the deceased family with burial preparations by offering a Sh5m compensation.