Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has announced it will take action on two Forest Rangers stationed in Kangaita Forest, Kirinyaga County following the demise of a forest offender.

The service in a statement issued on Thursday April 16, 2026, condemned the incident that led to the death of one Mr. David Munene, who was arrested on 30th March, 2026 for illegally cutting forest produce.

“Kenya Forest Service has taken disciplinary measures against two Forest Rangers in Kangaita Forest station, Kirinyaga County. This follows the demise of a forest offender Mr David Munene, who was arrested on 30th March, 2026 for illegally cutting forest produce,” the statement read in part.

It is reported that following his arrest, Mr. Munene was taken to the police, where he accused the Forest Rangers of beating him up.

He was presented in court and later hospitalized for medical attention. Unfortunately he succumbed on 8th April, 2026.

Kenya Forest Service said investigations are ongoing to establish what happened, adding that action will be taken if the two officers are found culpable. The service also urges the public to report any similar incidents to the nearest Police station.

“The Service does not condone brutality against members of the public and Forest Rangers are trained on how to handle offenders through Human Rights -Based Approach, and hence bear personal responsibility for any harm caused to the public,” the service said.

A post-mortem on the body of David Munene shows that he suffered severe brain bleeding consistent with blunt force trauma.