The Kenya Forest Service has condemned acts of brutality by its officers following the death of David Munene Mwaniki, a man arrested for illegal logging in Kirinyaga County.

In a statement issued on April 16, 2026, KFS announced disciplinary action against two rangers stationed at Kangaita Forest Station and reiterated its zero-tolerance policy on violence against members of the public.

“Kenya Forest Service has taken disciplinary measures against two Forest Rangers in Kangaita Forest station, Kirinyaga County.”

The service said Munene was arrested on March 30, 2026, for cutting forest produce illegally.

Arrest, treatment and death

According to the statement, Munene was taken to the police at Kerugoya after his arrest, where he accused forest rangers of assault during the operation. He was later presented in court and subsequently hospitalised for medical attention.

He died on April 8, 2026. Reports indicate that a post-mortem examination showed death resulted from blunt force trauma leading to brain bleeding. Police investigations into the circumstances surrounding his death are ongoing.

KFS said, “Forest Rangers are trained on how to handle offenders through a Human Rights-Based Approach, and hence bear personal responsibility for any harm caused to the public,” adding that any incidents of misconduct should be reported to the nearest police station.

Oversight and accountability concerns

The incident comes amid ongoing scrutiny of KFS operations. The agency had recently appeared before the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Environment, Forestry and Mining in Machakos County to defend its Supplementary Budget Estimates No. 1 for the 2025/2026 financial year.

During the session, Chief Conservator of Forests Alex Lemarkoko highlighted challenges including limited training, inadequate fencing, poor infrastructure within forest reserves, unpaid debts and seedling production constraints.

Committee Chairperson Hon. Vincent Musyoka raised concerns over alleged misconduct by some rangers, including misuse of firearms and poor relations with communities. He also cited complaints about illegal logging involving some officers.

“The budget for tree growing has been enhanced, but we call on this Committee to help us get more resources to support continuous training for KFS ranger officers… and securing these forests by fencing and opening up of roads inside the forests,” Lemarkoko said.

Conservation and public response

Environment Cabinet Secretary Deborah M. Barasa defended the funding proposal, noting that resource gaps had affected forest protection efforts and tree survival in some areas. She linked additional investment to national tree-growing targets aimed at increasing tree cover.

The incident has drawn public attention as police continue investigations into the death. KFS said it has taken disciplinary action against the officers involved and emphasised its commitment to lawful enforcement and forest protection.