Protests Erupt After KDF Allegedly Kills Two Police Reservists in Turkana South
Tension has gripped Kaputir in Turkana South after angry residents took to the streets to protest the alleged killing of two National Police Reservists (NPRs) by members of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).
The two NPR officers were reportedly shot dead on Wednesday, October 22, under unclear circumstances. The following day, October 23, outraged locals flooded the streets, demanding justice and the arrest of the soldiers believed to be behind the killings.
According to witnesses, the protesters blocked the busy Kaputir–Kapenguria Road using large stones and burning tires, completely halting transport and bringing activities in the area to a standstill.
Videos obtained by Newshub.co.ke show residents chanting and vowing not to reopen the road until the government responds to their cries and ensures justice for the slain officers.
Residents claim the two officers were heading home from their duties at the Lokwar Irrigation Scheme, where they had been deployed to provide security, when they encountered KDF personnel on patrol. It is alleged that the soldiers opened fire on them without provocation.
Sources from the ground said one of the NPR officers was shot in the head, dying instantly, while the other sustained fatal gunshot wounds to the chest and leg.
At the time of the shooting, both officers were dressed in their official NPR uniforms and carrying government-issued firearms while riding on a motorcycle.
The tragic incident has sparked widespread anger and condemnation from leaders in Turkana. Turkana South Member of Parliament John Ariko expressed deep sorrow and outrage over the killings, describing them as “senseless and heartbreaking.”
“It is deeply disturbing that members of the Kenya Defence Forces, who are constitutionally mandated to protect our nation and its people, have instead become a source of fear and insecurity for the Turkana community living along River Turkwel,” Ariko said in a statement.
The MP called on the Ministry of Interior and the National Government to take immediate action, including the withdrawal of all KDF and other security officers deployed in and around Aroo Sub-County until thorough investigations are conducted.
“Our hearts are heavy tonight as we mourn two brave officers who lost their lives in the line of duty. They served this nation faithfully, and their deaths must not go unpunished. Justice must be served to restore the trust of our people in the security forces,” Ariko added.
As of now, the Kenya Defence Forces have not released any official statement regarding the allegations. However, the police are said to have launched investigations into the incident to determine what led to the tragic deaths of the two NPR officers.
The situation in Kaputir remains tense, with locals insisting they will continue demonstrating until the government takes concrete steps to ensure accountability and justice for the slain officers.
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