A-70-year old man has sustained serious injuries after he was allegedly assaulted by Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) officers in Matungulu, Machakos County.
The victim is said to have been extracting stones at a quarry near Ol donyo Sabuk National Park in Matungulu Sub-county during the incident.
According to an eyewitness who spoke to this writer on condition of remaining anonymous for fear of victimization due to the sensitivity of the matter, the elderly man and others were working in the quarry when the officers arrived.
"He's old. So, he could not escape like others. That's why they caught and beat him up," the source said.
She said there have been squabbles between the residents and officers on where the KWS boundary should be.
The source said due to the wrangles, KWS officers take away the locals' livestock found grazing on the controversial land. She added that the livestock are only released if their owners pay to the officers Sh1,000 for each head of cattle.
In this case the injured man said he had to part with Sh4,000 to secure his freedom.
The parks' Senior Warden Polycarp Okuku confirmed the incident stating that they had launched a prob into the matter.
Okuku, however, said his officers reported to him that the victim was extracting stones in the park contrary to the law.
He said the residents trespass the park to log trees, burn charcoal, hunt game meat, and extract stones.
Okuku denied claims that his officers have been taking bribes whenever they arrest locals or livestock in the park.
"On that side, there is no fence. So, stray animals find their way to the park. Also, some people take advantage to come in and burn charcoal," he said.
He said after the investigations, those found capable of taking bribes will face disciplinary action.
The residents now want the boundary drawn and area fenced to avoid such squabbles.
#hivisasaoriginal