Mlolongo acting chief Soul Muasya (2L) with KWS rangers searching for two lions reportedly spotted at Sabaki in Athi River, Machakos county on July 18, 2026.
Residents of Mlolongo are on high alert after reports emerged that two lions were spotted roaming through several neighbourhoods, prompting an urgent search by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).
The sightings, reported in Sabaki Sub-location, Machakos County, have triggered fears among residents, with local administrators and police urging the public to remain vigilant and report any movement of the animals immediately.
Athi River East Sub-county Police Commander Anderson Mbae said officers alerted KWS after receiving reports that two lions were seen crossing the railway line from Nairobi National Park.
"Some people claim they saw two lions crossing the railway line from the Nairobi National Park. We got this information and informed KWS to come and ascertain the same," Mbae told the Star on Sunday.
Mlolongo acting chief Soul Muasya said KWS officers had launched a search following reports from residents.
According to Muasya, some locals spotted the lions behind Kivuli Court in Sabaki Estate on Saturday morning, while others claimed they saw the animals near Deliverance Church in Mavemba village at around 2 pm on Friday.
Other reports indicated the lions were also sighted in Suraya, Tupendane and Dumpsite areas within the sub-location.
Muasya urged residents to stay alert but avoid panic as the search continues.
"I call on anyone who spots the lions to kindly share with us their locations and movements immediately. I have been coordinating KWS personnel in the area after receiving the reports, but we haven't seen them ourselves. This could be due to late reporting," he said.
He added that KWS teams remain on the ground tracking the animals.
Lions occasionally stray from Nairobi National Park because the park is not fully fenced on the migration corridor.
Mlolongo's proximity to the park and Athi River makes the area vulnerable whenever wildlife moves beyond the protected boundary.
KWS has consistently advised residents in affected areas to keep children under close supervision, secure livestock in safe enclosures, avoid approaching or photographing wild animals, and report sightings immediately through its toll-free line or WhatsApp hotline.
The agency typically deploys rangers and veterinary teams to track, dart and safely relocate stray animals back into protected areas.
