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Governor Jeremiah Lomurukai has condemned what he described as an unprovoked attack on local fishermen by Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) that has led to the killing of several people.

The governor was speaking during the burial of Daniel Esekon Kiyonga, one of the victims who was shot dead, in Turkana County who was while fishing.

The incident, which has sparked outrage throughout the region, saw a KWS helicopter allegedly open fire on fishermen, resulting in the tragic death of nearly 18 individuals.

“Why should we be killed for no reason, and such things are allowed in Kenya for the survival of people? We are being denied by the KWS,” Governor Lomurukai lamented during his address at the funeral.

He expressed his intent to mobilize a serious delegation to demand answers from KWS regarding the disturbing incident.

 “KWS used a helicopter to shoot people. We have lost almost 18 people. Today, we have buried one of us, Daniel, who was shot while fishing in a place called Kotela,” one local resident recounted.

“Some boys were shot and thrown into the lake, and their boats were burned. The helicopter chased a boy while shooting up to a place called Kalokon to get medication,” the local resident continued.

The community’s grief and anger were intense as they required explanations for what they perceived as an unjustified use of force.

“The head of KWS must explain why and give full information about the reason for sending a helicopter to kill us. We must know if we have raided people’s properties or stolen something,” Governor Lomurukai emphasized, reflecting the sentiment of the bereaved and the community at large.