(Narok) – The Kenyan government has ordered the closure of Likia and Logoman forests in the Rift Valley, barring all human activities in these areas after recent violent skirmishes led to the deaths of four people and left many others injured. Rift Valley Regional Commissioner Dr. Abdi Hassan announced the decision, emphasizing that anyone entering the forests would be considered a criminal.
During a tour of Kirampa and Nessuit, areas near the Narok and Nakuru county border, Dr. Hassan expressed concerns about reports of a criminal gang armed with spears hiding in the forests, posing a threat to residents. “We have intelligence on a gang in the forests. Anyone found inside will be treated as a criminal,” Dr. Hassan stated.
Dr. Hassan also urged neighboring communities to maintain peace as investigations continue to identify those responsible for the killings. Law enforcement agencies are analyzing firearms allegedly used in some attacks, and Dr. Hassan assured that the culprits will be brought to justice.
The commissioner reinforced that security has been heightened, with sufficient police presence to protect lives and property. He urged residents not to carry weapons, underscoring the government’s commitment to safety. “The government’s primary responsibility is to protect lives and property. Allowing these recurring clashes to persist would be a failure of our duty,” Dr. Hassan noted, calling for an immediate end to the violence.
Dr. Hassan affirmed that, once peace is restored, the forests could be reopened to local communities for livestock grazing and firewood collection. However, he stressed that all residents, regardless of background, have equal rights to access forest resources, saying, “The forest belongs to everyone. First, we’ll restore peace, and then communities may regain access.”
Addressing reports of livestock theft in the region, Dr. Hassan called on those holding stolen animals to return them before a government-led search operation begins. “Today, we appeal for peace. Tomorrow, we will ensure peace prevails to allow people to resume their daily activities. A small group of criminals cannot be allowed to create tension,” he said.
In a strong message to law enforcement personnel, Dr. Hassan warned that police officers or National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) found supporting any community in escalating violence could face dismissal and legal action.
The peace meeting was attended by Narok North Woman Representative Agnes Pareyio, Olokurto Member of County Assembly Joshua Kishoyian, as well as members of the Rift Valley region security committee and security officials from both Narok and Nakuru counties.