The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), in collaboration with other stakeholders, has kicked off the second phase of ‘Operation Ondoa Fisi Juja’ after a woman was mauled to death by hyena(s) in Juja area, Kiambu County, on Wednesday, August 7.

In the tragic morning incident, police say that Nancy Njoki — a food vendor — was returning home after buying her supplies from a local market when she was attacked and killed by the wild animal(s).

The remains of the 52-year-old woman were found in the area.

The KWS expressed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, pledging an expedited compensation process over the same.

“Responding swiftly, Kenya Wildlife Service dispatched the Deputy Director of Community Relations and Outreach Division, Mr. Abdi Doti, accompanied by Senior Principal Veterinary Officer Dr. Bernard Rono and Oldonyo Sabuk National Park team to attend the case and offered support,” KWS says in a statement.

‘Operation Ondoa Fisi Juja’, the Service says, commenced on Wednesday, August 7 night, with residents of Juja South Estate urged to remain calm even as a thorough search for the hyenas continues.

In January this year, KWS conducted the first phase of ‘Operation Ondoa Fisi Juja’ along with a vigorous anti-rabies vaccination drive and community engagement aimed at preventing human-hyena conflict.

The operation saw 12 hyenas translocated from various location within Juja Sub-County, including; Munyaka in Theta Ward, Mwireri in Juja House, Athi, Kikumari Zone, Kimich and Mwalimu Farms.

“We remain steadfast in ensuring the safety and well-being of the people of Juja by working with other related agencies,” KWS says. “We urge the public to report any incidents of hyena citings through our 24/7 hotline number 0800 597 000 for immediate intervention.”