Residents of KK and Kaai village in Akirang’ondu Ward, Igembe Central Subcounty, Meru County want the Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS) to expedite compensation for their miraa crops, which were trampled by elephants on Friday.
Two elephants suspected to have strayed from Meru National Park, destroyed miraa plantations, food crops, and some buildings, claiming the life of a 90-year-old Kimani M’Ithibutu while sleeping in his house.
Two women who sustained serious injuries are battling for their lives at Nyambene Level 4 hospital.
The residents said for the miraa crop to mature, it takes almost ten years, and it’s one of their major cash crops in the area.
They called upon KWS to implement safety measures to eradicate human-animal conflict and immediately compensate the affected families.
Julius Karuti, a resident of Kk village, said the elephants invaded the farms on Friday morning, trampling miraa and other crops that they solely depend on for their livelihood, leaving them on the verge of financial constraints.
"We have lost our crops and the life of an elderly man, and we need compensation in time," he said.
Speaking to the residents, area MCA Morris Ntarangwi said he will sue KWS if they fail to compensate for the damages incurred.
He urged the residents to be vigilant as two other elephants are suspected to be in the neighbouring ward.
