Crocodiles relocated amid residents' protests

Conservation authorities have begun relocating crocodiles from a local dam following complaints by residents. Relocation of the first batch of reptiles began Tuesday.

The relocation comes against the backdrop of a simmering row between Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), the management of a transport firm, residents and local leaders over the introduction of crocodiles in the dam.

Crocodiles were introduced in the dam situated on the 28,000-acre Taita Hills and Salt Lick Wildlife Sanctuary in Tsavo West National Park a few years ago. The sanctuary is managed by Pollmans.

Leaders claimed they were not involved in the introduction of the crocodiles in the dam. Tsavo Conservation Senior Warden Dickson Too and Sarova Taita Hills and Salt Lick Lodge Manager Will Mwadilo confirmed the crocodiles were being relocated to Galana River in Tsavo East National Park.

Mr Mwadilo said nine crocodiles had so far been captured and removed from the dam by KWS in conjunction with Pollmans.
Governor John Mruttu had earlier asked KWS to send officers to relocate the reptiles until a proper environmental impact assessment and construction was done as they are currently a security threat to residents.