2 KWS officers attacked by buffalo
By Cynthia Lodite, August 13, 2025The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has confirmed that at least two KWS officers were attacked by a lone buffalo during a routine patrol in the IPZ area of Tsavo West National Park.
In a statement released to the public on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, KWS has highlighted the risks its officers go through in wildlife conservation.
According to KWS, the incident occurred when two Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) rangers were conducting a routine surveillance mission. At the time of the surveillance, without warning, a lone buffalo charged at them, injuring one ranger in the left leg.
“Every day, wildlife rangers face the wild, meeting unpredictable challenges to protect Kenya’s incredible wildlife. During a routine patrol in the IPZ area of Tsavo West National Park, two rangers came under sudden attack from a lone buffalo. One ranger was injured in the left leg,” KWS said.
Similarly, in a swift response, the second ranger fired a warning shot, forcing the buffalo to retreat into nearby thickets, allowing the pair to escape further harm.
Ranger’s health status
The authority has further announced that the injured ranger was immediately airlifted to St Joseph Hospital, where he is receiving medical care and is reported to be in stable condition.
“His colleague fired a warning shot, driving the buffalo into the thicket and giving them a chance to escape. The injured ranger was quickly airlifted to St Joseph Hospital for medical attention,” KWS noted.
Following the incident, the service has underscored the daily dangers faced by rangers in the line of duty as they protect Kenya’s iconic wildlife. From confronting poachers to surviving unpredictable encounters with wild animals, their work demands bravery, resilience, and selfless dedication.
“Such moments are a powerful reminder that conservation is not just about protecting wildlife; it is also about the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of women and men in boots who risk their lives on the front lines. We wish him a quick recovery and invite you to stand in solidarity with all rangers who protect Kenya’s natural heritage.
On their part, KWS has praised the rangers’ quick response and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the well-being and safety of frontline conservation teams.