Forest Service Probes Overnight Felling of 350 Trees
The country’s Forest Service has opened investigations into the sudden destruction of trees at Saboti Forest Station in the Mount Elgon ecosystem.
According to a notice released on Thursday, 350 young trees in the Makunga forest block of Trans Nzoia County were cut down overnight and simply abandoned at the site. Officials have confirmed that the nearby Shikhendu block was not affected by the incident.
In its official statement, the agency described the act as deliberate and harmful. “The country’s Forest Service has commenced investigations following reports of forest destruction and illegal logging in Saboti Forest station within the Mount Elgon ecosystem,” the notice read. It further noted that “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.”
Authorities have made it clear that those responsible will face arrest and prosecution. Security and protection measures around the affected area have already been tightened as officers work to identify the culprits. The Forest Service is appealing to members of the public who may have useful information to come forward and report it to the Saboti Foresters’ office, the Trans Nzoia County Forest Conservator or the nearest police station.
The latest incident adds to growing worries about illegal logging in the Mount Elgon region. Trans Nzoia County Commissioner Alason Hussein recently visited Saboti Forest to assess earlier damage and warned local residents against entering the forest for activities that harm its resources. He reminded the community that the area serves as a vital water tower and catchment for parts of the county.
Forest officials stress that protecting these woodlands is essential for both the environment and local livelihoods. By strengthening patrols and inviting public cooperation, the service hopes to deter further destruction and preserve the ecological value of Saboti Forest for future generations. The investigation continues as authorities seek to bring those behind the overnight tree felling to justice.
