The Government has pledged to address the growing concern of hyena attacks in Juja estates, following a recent spate of violent incidents that have left residents in fear. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua announced on Saturday that a specialized team of security personnel will be deployed to capture and relocate the wild animals responsible for the attacks.
Speaking at the wedding ceremony of Paul Wetosi and Jacinta Wanjiru, the daughter of Juja MP George Koimburi, Gachagua addressed the pressing issue that has become a significant safety concern in the region. The event, held at Juja Preparatory School grounds, provided a platform for Gachagua to discuss the Government’s plan to mitigate the menace of hyenas that have been preying on residents.
“We have been informed by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Director-General that the abandoned quarry sites in Juja are contributing to the problem,” Gachagua said. “These quarries are not only providing hiding places for the hyenas but also pose other environmental risks, such as becoming breeding grounds for mosquitoes.”
The Deputy President’s remarks come in response to a distress call from Juja MP George Koimburi, who has been vocal about the urgent need for Government intervention. Koimburi highlighted the recent death of a 52-year-old woman, who was mauled by a hyena, as well as several other fatal attacks over the past five months, which have claimed the lives of both adults and children.
“The situation has reached a critical point,” Koimburi said. “The residents are living in constant fear, and immediate action is required to protect our community.”
Gachagua assured that the Government’s response will include not only capturing and relocating the hyenas but also addressing the environmental hazards posed by the abandoned quarries. This comprehensive approach aims to alleviate the threat posed by the wild animals and improve overall safety in the region.
As the Government takes steps to address the hyena menace, local residents and leaders are hopeful that the intervention will bring relief to the affected communities and restore peace in Juja estates.
