The aftermath of a violent confrontation between enraged herders and police in the Duka Moja area along the Narok-Kisii highway has left the community reeling.
The incident, which occurred on Friday, January 18, resulted in three fatalities and multiple injuries, with victims coming forward to share their harrowing experiences.
Florence Kemunto, one of the victims, recounted the chilling events that unfolded that day. Kemunto, who was returning from her farm, found herself caught in the chaos and was struck by stray bullets, leaving her with severe injuries to her thigh.
“I had just left my farm when I encountered a group of people protesting,” Kemunto explained.
“Shortly after, police officers arrived at the scene, and the situation became chaotic as people began running in all directions.
While trying to escape, I felt a sharp pain and realized I was bleeding. Thankfully, some kind individuals rushed me to the hospital.”
Currently undergoing treatment, Kemunto revealed that two bullets remain lodged in her body, intensifying her ordeal.
Narok County Police Commander Rick Ongare confirmed that nine police officers injured during the confrontation received medical attention and were subsequently discharged.
The unrest began after a tragic incident on Thursday night, January 17, when a Toyota Prado heading to Kisii collided with a herd of livestock, killing over 40 sheep.
Furious over their loss, the herders, suspected to be Maasai Morans, staged protests and accused the police of accepting a substantial bribe to clear the scene and cover up the tragedy.
According to local resident Sankok Ole Lamwesi, “We were devastated when we learned about the bribe. It’s alleged that the police were paid Ksh2 million to remove the carcasses and keep the incident quiet.”
The tension escalated when police officers arrived to manage the situation, triggering a violent altercation.
The angry herders allegedly attacked the officers, severely injuring one, amputating his hand, and seizing his firearm.
Reports suggest that the officers were pursued by residents armed with rungus and machetes, resulting in the brutal attack.
Transport along the Narok-Kisii highway was paralyzed for nearly three hours as the protesters blocked the road, refusing to clear the way until their governor arrived to witness the damage firsthand.
Despite the hostility, calm was eventually restored after the stolen gun was returned. Law enforcement assured the public that efforts were underway to prevent further unrest.
Narok Senator Ledama Olekina expressed his condolences to the affected residents and urged everyone to prioritize peace. “This is a tragic double loss of both lives and livestock.
I encourage the police and the community to remain calm as we work together to seek justice.
I am committed to addressing the issue alongside the area MP, Ken Aramat, who was quick to intervene,” Senator Ledama said.
Similarly, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna lamented the mishandling of the situation and called for restraint from both the community and security forces. “What happened in Narok is deeply regrettable. The deaths and injuries could have been avoided.
I urge everyone to exercise maximum restraint to prevent further bloodshed. I have engaged with the area senator and local leaders to support efforts toward peace,” Sifuna stated.
Meanwhile, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) announced its intention to investigate the events surrounding the violence, promising a thorough examination to determine accountability and ensure justice for those affected.
The Duka Moja tragedy has highlighted the urgent need for better conflict management and community engagement to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Join Kenyan Gen z and millennials official WhatsApp Channel To Stay Updated On time the ongoing situation https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaWT5gSGufImU8R0DO30
Tiktok – https://www.tiktok.com/@news.hub88?_t=ZM-8sz45qJid3V&_r=1
