Police officer at a past security patrol. Officers have been asked to be on high alert not to be tricked by gangs encroaching on Mau Forest. [Photo: the-star.co.ke]
The use of technology by gangs encroaching on Mau Forest is the biggest hurdle to conservation, Nakuru county conservator Sylvester Marcodero has said.
He said suspects dodge not only police officers but also officials by use of mobile phones to escape law and arrest.
The conservator said technology beats the intricate network of informers put in place by Kenya Forest Service in areas prone to illegal logging.
"Several suspect have escaped arrest because they trick officials using the phones. They pretend to be calling relatives to help them but only to end up running away. It is time police officers and officials to be more vigilant not to be tricked and ensure those trespassing faces the full force of the law," he said.
Marcodero added that gangs have illegally accessed the Mau Forest to destroy trees and kill animals such as antelopes which is a threat to conservancy.