By Renson Mnyamwezi
The Kenya Wildlife Service has driven elephants that had invaded farms in Mwatate District back to Tsavo National Park.
KWS acted after more than 800 jumbos invaded farms and destroyed hundreds of acres of food crops.
The rogue jumbos were also a threat on human beings in the lower parts of the county.
KWS warden in-charge of the Southern Sector of Tsavo West National Park, Mr Samuel Rukaria, said over 50 rangers from the animal control unit in Nanyuki and Sarova Taita Hills sanctuary guards were involved in the air and ground operation to drive the animals back to the park.
"We drove back over 800 elephants on the first day. We will continue with the operation until the area is freed from the destructive wild animals," said Rukaria.
He said residents had been advised to restrict their movements, especially in areas where the operation was going on.
"We have advised residents to remain indoors to avert conflict until we complete the exercise," he said.
The warden said the region was experiencing a high number of elephants because it was a migratory season.
"Elephants are now moving from the northern side of the Tsavo ecosystem to the southern part. We are alert to ensure that that lives and property are protected from wildlife attacks," said Rukaria.
The region is one of the worst hit by persistent human-wildlife conflict since 62 per cent of the area is occupied by Tsavo National Park, 24 per cent by private farms and ranches while the local community only occupies 11 per cent.
