The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has launched investigations into the felling of 350 young trees at Saboti Forest Station in Trans Nzoia County.
The trees were reportedly cut down overnight in the Makunga forest block, within the Mount Elgon ecosystem, and left lying on the ground.
KFS said it had enhanced security and protection in the affected area as investigations continue to determine those responsible for the destruction.
“Kenya Forest Service has commenced investigations following reports of forest destruction and illegal logging in Saboti Forest station within the Mount Elgon ecosystem,” the statement read.
The service also said the Shikhendu forest block was not affected, contrary to reports circulating online.
According to KFS, the illegal felling in Makunga appeared to have been carried out by a few individuals in what it described as an attempt to incite the local community.
“The illegal felling of trees within Makunga forest block seems to be maliciously instigated by a few individuals to incite the community, and 350 young trees were felled overnight and left on the ground.”
“Protection and security have since been enhanced, and those found culpable of the forest crimes will be arrested and charged as per the Forest Conservation and Management Act (amendment) 2026,” KFS said.
KFS has urged members of the public with information that could help identify or lead to the arrest of those involved to report it to the Saboti Forest Office, the County Forest Conservator in Trans Nzoia or the nearest police station.
The service said it remains committed to protecting and conserving forest resources across the country.
In March, KFS launched the Timber Tracker System (TTS), a digital platform aimed at curbing illegal timber trade and improving traceability across the forestry value chain.
The system was unveiled as part of efforts to digitise timber trade management and strengthen oversight of timber movement from forests to the market.
KFS said the platform is expected to improve monitoring, enhance operational efficiency and increase transparency across the timber supply chain.
The launch, held at KFS headquarters, featured a live demonstration of the system, as well as the symbolic handover of a printed TTS homepage and a point-of-sale (POS) device.
The system was developed with support from the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) and in collaboration with the technical partner Traffic International.
Chief Conservator of Forests Alex Lemarkoko said the platform would significantly transform the management of Kenya’s timber trade.
“Once fully operational, the system will enhance efficiency, traceability, and considerably reduce illegal timber trade in Kenya,” Lemarkoko said.
He said the introduction of the platform marked KFS’s shift from manual processes to automated timber trade management.
The system is expected to strengthen monitoring and traceability at different stages of the forestry value chain, helping KFS improve oversight of timber as it moves from forests to the market.
