Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has addressed concerns regarding an alleged lion sighted in Langata area of Nairobi County.
The Govt agency in a statement said it received reports of three lions sighted near the Langata Women’s Prison on Wednesday, May 15 evening.
“Last evening, Kenya Wildlife Service received reports of three lions allegedly sighted near Langata Women’s Prison in Nairobi,” said the KWS.
The alleged sighting which raised concerns among residents prompted an immediate response from the authorities.
According to the press release issued by KWS, the Problem Animal Control team was promptly mobilized and conducted a thorough search of the area throughout the night.
“In response, the KWS Problem Animal Control team promptly mobilized and conducted a thorough search of the area throughout the night,” read the statement.
However, despite their efforts, no lions were found in the area.
Also Read: KWS Clarifies Reports on Killing of Maasai Maras Famous Lion
KWS has assured the public that they are closely monitoring the situation and remain on high alert.
They emphasized that the safety of residents remains their top priority and are urging people to stay vigilant and report any wildlife sightings to the KWS 24-hour hotline number 0800 597 000 or WhatsApp 0726 610509 for immediate intervention.
KWS on Similar Incidences of Lions Sighting
In a similar incident in 2016, KWS had received reports of six lions roaming and causing panic along the Southern bypass and Langata area.
The agency swiftly responded by sending a team to track down the stray lions and ensure public safety.
This is not an isolated incident, as KWS has been actively involved in monitoring and managing the lion population in Nairobi National Park.
Also Read: The Fast, Furious, and Brutally Short Life of an African Male Lion
In 2019, another lion escaped from the park before killing a herdsman whose animals were grazing near the park.
According to reports an eighteen-year-old boy who was then identified as Weldon Kirui, was mauled as his seven colleagues helplessly watched.
The then Nairobi police Chief Japheth Koome said the eight men were herding animals in the park when they were attacked by two lions.
“The herders were illegally in the park when the attack occurred and most of the man’s body was eaten by the lions,” Koome said then.
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