Five people have died and several others, including two police officers, sustained injuries following a violent confrontation between residents and security officers at Angata Barrikoi in Transmara South Sub-county.
The deadly clashes erupted during a disputed land demarcation exercise involving a contested 6,800-acre parcel of land. Tensions flared when government land officials attempted to access and survey the area, sparking resistance from locals who claim historical ownership of the land.
Angry residents barricaded roads and torched several vehicles, prompting security officers to intervene. The resulting confrontation turned deadly, with five individuals losing their lives and several others injured. Those wounded, including the two police officers, are currently receiving treatment at various health facilities in the area, including Angata Barrikoi Health Centre, where the bodies of the deceased are also lying.
Area residents are demanding transparency and accountability, calling on authorities to ensure justice is served for the victims of the confrontation. Speaking on the incident, Angata Barrikoi Member of County Assembly (MCA) Joseph Koech urged the government to intervene swiftly and find a lasting solution to the land dispute.
Tension remains high in the area, with police forced to disperse crowds that had gathered at the health centre, fearing potential further unrest.
Authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the cause of the violent escalation and the way forward in resolving the dispute.