One killed, two including a varsity student injured in fresh hyena attack in Rongai, Kajiado county
The Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS) is onece again on the spotlight over unabated wildlife-human conflict after marauding hyena killed one person and grievously injured two others people including a university student at Ole Kasasi area in Rongai, Kajiado county.
In a statement, KWS noted that the Southern part of the park serves as wildlife migratory corridor, hence the need to exercise caution.
However, KWS has been accused of knee jerk reactions without enforcing contingency measures to forestall future attacks.
The injured student is enrolled at the Multi Media University.
They were attacked on Monday, February 5, 2024 evening at approximately 8.00PM, at Ole Kasasi area in Rongai, Kajiado county.
“Upon receiving reports, KWS promptly deployed the Problem Animal Management Unit (PAMU), who rushed the men to Wema Hospital in Rongai. The injured were then referred to The Kenyatta National Hospital for specialized treatment, after First Aid was administered.” KWS said through a quick dispatch to newsrooms.
KWS further revealed that partial remains of a human being were discovered at the scene and have since been confirmed by family members.
“The PAMU team will remain on standby until all hyenas in Ole Kasasi are driven back into the park to enhance protection of members.” The statement added.
On Tuesday, Multi Media University students held peaceful demonstrations outside the KWS Workshop Gate opposite the university.
The protests escalated while KWS senior officers held an emergency meeting with the university’s Vice Chancellor Professor Maranga and her team.
“KWS Senior Assistant Director for Southern Conservation Area, Adan Kalla, MMU Vice Chancellor Professor Maranga, and OCPD Rongai addressed the agitated students, and KWS outlined mitigation measures taken to contain the hyenas.”
The PAMU team promptly put down one hyena and proceeded to further launch an operation to identify any surrounding hyena dens.
The veterinary team accompanying PAMU are investigating the hyena carcass, to ascertain whether they could be infected with rabies or other zoonotic diseases.
KWS urged all Kenyans to promptly report any wildlife emergency cases to the nearest KWS office or contact the Service’s 24/7 hotline on 0800 597 000 for immediate intervention.
