Police in Narok South Sub County have impounded over 4, 000 cider posts being transported from Maasai Mau forest without a permit.
Speaking in his office today, area Deputy County Commissioner Felix Kisalu said the posts were nabbed near Olololunga trading center as they were being transported in four probox vehicles.
“We have closed the forest and anyone found near the forest land is a criminal. Security has been boosted in the forest land to allow the forest to regenerate,” reiterated the DCC.
Kisalu said the illegal cider posts were being transported to outside counties including Kisii, Bomet and Nyamira areas where the demand is high.
“The officers were carrying out their normal surveillance along the road when they impounded the four probox vehicles and seized the forest produce,” said Kisalu.
The DCC reminded the residents that the government does not allow the cutting of indigenous trees like Kenya cider and oak as they take over 50 years to mature saying the operation to nab those illegally cutting trees will continue.
At the same time, Narok County Ecosystem Conservator Mwai Muraguri decried increased tree harvesting on private farms saying those who cut any tree without a valid license risk arrest.
Muraguri added cutting down trees for domestic use like charcoal burning and fencing should be done after consulting with the chief and getting a valid license from his office as per the law.
“We only allow charcoal burning for domestic use but not for sale. Everyone with the intention of cutting a tree even if it is private should notify my office prior to the cutting,” said Mwai.
Trees, Muraguri said help in holding soil on the ground hence preventing soil erosion and are also essential in mitigating mudslides and floods.
“It is unfortunate that the post dealers are shifting to the private farms after we banned any human activities at the Maasai Mau forest. We advise anyone with the intention to cut trees to seek permission from our office first,” said Muraguri.
By Ann Salaton
