Leopard attacks villagers in Kericho, killed

Nine people were injured on Friday evening after they were attacked by a stray leopard in Waldai, Belgut Sub-County in Kericho.

Seven of the victims are recuperating at Kericho Sub-County Hospital.

Officials say two were critically injured.

Two with minor injuries were treated at Sosiot Health Centre and discharged.

The wild cat is said to have been hunting for food in a pen when villagers spotted and tried to kill it.

It however, pounced on the armed men, one by one, seriously injuring them.

"At about 5.30pm, one of us saw a strange animal trying to attack a bull. He alarmed residents who came in large numbers while armed," Robert Rugut, a resident, said.

He said the animal was alarmed and started attacking men who were closest to it.

"It nearly killed one of them before we speared it down and stoned it to death," he added.

Residents claim that the leopard had caused them sleepless nights for several weeks as it had been wandering in the region.

They say it killed two goats in the same neighbourhood Friday.

The residents said they suspect another big cat is in the area and called calling on authorities to trace and relocate the marauding leopard.

"We are asking the wildlife department to intervene. These animals are so dangerous," said Gideon Cheruiyot, a resident.