Protests Over Missing Fisherman Lead to Lake Nakuru Fire

Lake Nakuru National Park was set on fire today as angry protesters escalated demonstrations over the disappearance of Brian Odhiambo, a local fisherman.

At least 20 students from Kimathi Secondary School were hospitalized after police fired tear gas to disperse the demonstrators, who had blocked roads leading to the park with bonfires and stones, disrupting tourist access.

Odhiambo was reportedly apprehended by Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) officers on Saturday, January 18, 2025, for fishing in a restricted area. According to his mother, Elizabeth Auma, he was last seen being forcefully taken by officers despite her pleas for dialogue. His whereabouts remain unknown.

The protests, now in their fifth day, turned violent despite police confirming the arrest of six KWS officers linked to Odhiambo’s disappearance. Nakuru East DCIO Samwel Ngeiywo confirmed the arrests but did not provide further details.

The ongoing protests highlight longstanding tensions over fishing rights at Lake Nakuru, which have previously led to conflicts and disappearances.

Meanwhile, Nakuru County officials are assessing the extent of the damage caused by the fire in the park, a major tourist attraction and revenue source.

The incident comes as another wildfire rages in Isiolo County, where nearly 300,000 acres of grassland have been consumed, affecting four villages. According to County Commissioner Geoffrey Omunde, the Isiolo fire was started by individuals attempting to harvest honey and clear pests such as tsetse flies and ticks.

Authorities have urged calm as investigations into both incidents continue.