Residents of Kikuyu Sub-County have been cautioned against engaging in cutting down of trees in the area without obtaining permits from the forestry department in the area.
Speaking in her office on Tuesday, the Deputy Forestry Officer Esther Nyaguthii said residents were committing an offence by cutting down trees without getting a permit to do so from the offices.
The forestry officer said some land owners had gone to an extend of cutting down trees that were along the road. She cited a case where a man was arrested two weeks ago after he was found cutting down a tree along the road claiming he had planted it.
Nyaguthii said trees along the road could only be cut for specific reasons like when the branches extend and lean on electricity lights.
She added that in case of such cases, the office permits such branches or trees to be cut down as they pose a danger to road users and residents.
"Those who will be found cutting down the trees will be prosecuted and dealt with in accordance to the law. Conservation of trees is important but some people are cutting them for their own benefit. Ensure you receive a permit from whoever asks you to cut down trees before doing so as it may land you in serious trouble," said Nyaguthii.
The forestry officer said the rate at which people were cutting down trees was alarming as they do not plant more trees.
"When one cuts down a tree, it is advisable to plant three more to replace it," said Nyaguthii.