By ROBERT KIPLAGAT
Residents of Baringo are living in fear after a stray lion suspected to have escaped from Laikipia conservancy killed three cows in Sacho.
The lion, which has been reportedly roaming in the area for the past four days, is said to have fled towards Lake Kamnarok National Reserve, about 60km from the previous scene.
Villagers alleged that fear is gripping them as the wild animal was seen roaming in the village near Kipng’ochoch forest.
Led by Zacharia Kipkoech, the locals complained the animal has so far killed and eaten three cows prompting some villagers to flee their homes for safety.
“We are now forced to lock ourselves in our houses as early as 5pm because the animal could strike any time. It has been three days now that the animal, a male lion, has been roaming in villages near the forest,” said Kipkoech.
He said tension has heightened among the villagers and called on the area Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) to move swiftly to drive the animal back to Laikipia ranch or kill it for public safety.
Baringo KWS Warden, Mr Kenneth ole Nasho, said the lion has moved from the area and was headed for the reserve.
“We are on the lookout for the animal so that it does not cause injuries and further damage to locals,” he told The Standard.
Ole Nasho said they have created sufficient awareness among the locals to report sight of the animal.
Invaded
