The family of Justice Jairus Ngaah, judge of the High Court, is in mourning following the untimely death of Sammy Ngaah, a Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS) officer who lost his life while pursuing suspected poachers in Marsabit County.
Sammy Ngaah, 36, drowned on Tuesday, April 24, 2025, after stepping into a concealed swamp near a lake during an anti-poaching operation. According to Joseph Mwolo, a close family and childhood friend, Sammy was in active pursuit of poachers when the ground beneath him gave way.
“It looked like solid ground, but it was a hidden swamp. He went under and didn’t make it out,” Mwolo said, devastated. “It was a tragic accident that none of us could have expected. We are all in shock.”
Sammy, the eldest son of Joseph Ngaah, a well-known agriculturalist in Lugari Sub-County, Kakamega County, leaves behind six children. Known for his vibrant personality and deep love for community, Sammy was admired both for his service in wildlife conservation and his involvement in local sports. He played football for Mumboa FC, a popular team in his home village.
Since news of his passing broke, friends and family have flooded social media with messages of condolence, describing him as warm, courageous, and passionate about his job.
The family has yet to issue an official statement but is moving forward with burial arrangements. His body has been transferred from Nairobi to Hope Funeral Home in Lugari. He will be laid to rest on Saturday, May 3, 2025, according to plans.
Sam Oduor is the founder and one of the editors at WKT. With a strong background in Communication and Journalism, Sam is an experienced digital media expert currently building a team of young professionals dedicated to telling the story of our community in a unique, authentic way.
