A volatile situation unfolded in Migori’s Macalder trading center, Nyatike sub-county, on Saturday afternoon as tensions over the local goldmine, colloquially known as ‘Copper Hill,’ culminated in chaos, violence, and significant property damage. The unrest involved clashes between local residents, police officers, and supporters of a visiting politician, leading to multiple injuries and a vehicle being set ablaze.
The dispute centers on the control and exploitation of the gold-rich area known as Copper Hill. This mining spot has been a flashpoint for local conflict due to its lucrative resources and the involvement of various factions vying for control. On Saturday, the situation escalated dramatically when the area’s Member of County Assembly (MCA), Felix Okwanyo, became a central figure in the violence.
According to eyewitnesses, the trouble began in the early afternoon when a convoy associated with a local politician arrived in the area. The arrival of the politician seemed to ignite existing tensions among the locals, who are reportedly frustrated with the management of the goldmine and its economic benefits.
Residents allege that the conflict began when MCA Okwanyo, who has been actively involved in mediating local disputes and representing community interests, was violently attacked. “The MCA was beaten and stabbed during the fracas. It was clear that the situation was getting out of hand, and the intervention of police only made things worse,” recounted one of the local residents.
The ensuing confrontation saw local residents clashing with police officers. The police, in an effort to restore order, employed tear gas to disperse the crowd. The use of tear gas, however, intensified the chaos, leading to more injuries and property damage. During the unrest, a vehicle belonging to the visiting politician was completely destroyed by fire, adding to the day’s upheaval.
Reports indicate that the violence persisted well into the evening, with several people injured and rushed to hospitals in Migori for medical treatment. Among those injured were two police officers who sustained injuries during the melee and were also taken to hospital.
The MCA, Felix Okwanyo, was reported to have sustained a stab wound and was urgently transported to a medical facility for treatment. His condition remains under observation, and further updates are awaited on his health status.
In response to the violence, local authorities have called for calm and are investigating the incident. The situation has drawn widespread attention and criticism, highlighting the volatile nature of resource-related conflicts and the urgent need for effective conflict resolution mechanisms.
The chaos in Macalder underscores the broader challenges facing communities rich in natural resources but plagued by governance issues and factional disputes. The goldmine at Copper Hill, which has long been a source of both economic opportunity and contention, remains a significant point of concern for local leaders and residents alike.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of Saturday’s violence, there is a pressing need for dialogue and resolution to address the underlying issues driving the conflict. Ensuring the safety and well-being of local residents while managing the economic potential of the goldmine will be crucial in preventing further incidents and fostering a more stable environment.
The events of the past weekend serve as a stark reminder of the challenges associated with resource management and political involvement in areas where economic interests and local dynamics intersect.
