Tension is gradually easing in Angata Barrikoi Ward, Transmara South Sub-county, following deadly clashes between residents and police officers that left five people dead and several others, including five officers, injured. The violence erupted on Monday during a protest against the planned demarcation of a contested 6,800-acre land in the Moyoi Adjudication Section.
According to reports, chaos began when officials from the Ministry of Lands, accompanied by security personnel, attempted to commence the adjudication process. The exercise was met with resistance from local residents who claim ancestral ownership of the land and cited unresolved historical grievances as the basis of their opposition.
What began as a protest quickly escalated into violence as tensions boiled over, prompting a forceful response from law enforcement. The confrontation ended in tragedy, sparking outrage and raising concerns over land disputes and police conduct.
Area MCA Joseph Koech confirmed that calm has since been restored, thanks to reinforced security in the region. He urged both the national and county governments to prioritize conflict resolution and avoid further loss of life.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, Narok Governor Patrick ole Ntutu, County Commissioner Kipkech Lotiatia, and other senior security officials visited the affected area to assess the situation. Governor Ntutu announced that the county government will cater for funeral expenses and hospital bills for those injured, emphasizing the need for dialogue over violence.
“This land issue must be resolved through dialogue, not violence,” he said while consoling grieving families.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja is expected to visit the area on Tuesday to address security concerns and reassure residents of a professional and restrained police presence. Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot and other Kipsigis leaders are also scheduled to tour the area in support of peace and reconciliation efforts.
Meanwhile, community elders and peace champions are calling for an urgent stakeholders’ forum to resolve the long-standing land dispute. The Moyoi issue is just one of several contentious land matters in the broader Trans Mara region, placing growing pressure on leaders to deliver lasting, peaceful solutions.
