Two Killed as Forest Rangers Clash with Residents Over Illegal Sand Harvesting in Kakamega

Two men were killed and several others injured on Tuesday after a violent confrontation between Kenya Forest Service officers and residents in Nabanga village, Lurambi constituency, Kakamega County.

According to a police report recorded under OB2/20/01/2026, three forest rangers from Lurambi Forest Station intercepted a tractor suspected of transporting sand illegally from the Isiukhu River in the early hours of the morning. As the officers attempted to impound the vehicle, a group of local residents confronted them and began throwing stones.

The rangers fired warning shots into the air to disperse the crowd, but the situation escalated rapidly. Two civilians were fatally shot during the clash, while several others, including security officers, sustained injuries.

The deceased were identified as Godfrey Muyonga, 52, and Benedict Isiakali, 34. Both suffered gunshot wounds to the chest. Another resident, Albert Shibekere, was shot in the thigh and was admitted to Kakamega County General Hospital. The bodies of the two men were taken to Kakamega County Funeral Parlour, where post-mortem examinations are pending.

Property was also damaged during the incident. A motorcycle belonging to the forest officers was set on fire amid the unrest. One officer, Kefa Simon Adhiambo, was rescued with serious leg injuries, while two others, Eric Okitoyi and Jazzel Ouma, were reported missing. Search operations are ongoing.

Police have launched investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the shootings and the events that led to the confrontation. Authorities are also assessing the extent of injuries and damage recorded during the incident.

Illegal sand harvesting along the Isiukhu River has remained a persistent enforcement challenge in the area. Officials say operations to curb the activity will continue as investigations proceed.