The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has responded to claims surrounding the fatal shooting of a high school student in Trans Nzoia County, clarifying the incident occurred within protected woodland—not on private property as initially reported.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, KFS stated that the event unfolded on Monday morning during a law enforcement operation targeting unauthorized settlers in the Makunga section of Saboti forest area.

Officers were attempting to remove individuals who had allegedly begun farming and erecting makeshift shelters on forest land.

According to the service, the officers were met with resistance from a crowd reportedly wielding crude weapons.

Amid the confrontation, a bullet believed to have been accidentally fired struck and killed a youth—later identified as a form 3 learner.

KFS emphasized that the forest is a publicly protected area, dismissing narratives that the shooting took place on private agricultural land.

The organization confirmed that the case is now under active review by the National Police Service, and pledged full cooperation to ensure accountability and justice for the deceased.

This tragedy adds to recent scrutiny facing KFS officers. Last month, a ranger allegedly shot a civilian during a patrol in Kiptunga Forest, claiming self-defense after the individual allegedly attempted to stab him with a knife.

In another instance, three KFS personnel were arraigned in Kabarnet High Court for allegedly killing a man in Baringo County’s Narasha Forest. All pleaded not guilty to murder charges.

While reaffirming its commitment to forest conservation, KFS stated it remains dedicated to upholding human rights and the rule of law in all its operations.