The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched investigations into the fatal shooting of civilians during a land invasion in Angama Mara, Narok County.
The incident, which occurred on Thursday, June 5, 2025, left one person dead according to police, although local residents claim three people were killed.
The clashes broke out after about 300 people stormed a disputed piece of land at Lolkuruk village, which houses a private conservancy and hotel linked to former Narok Governor Samuel Tunai. The group, armed with crude weapons, claimed the 800-acre property had been illegally taken from them.
Security officers, including the General Service Unit (GSU), Anti-Stock Theft Unit, and Rapid Deployment Unit, were called in after efforts to negotiate with the group failed. Police said the invaders arrived at the farm as early as 2 a.m. and refused to leave, demanding to see Mr. Tunai to explain how he acquired the land.
Gunfire was first used to scare off the group, with GSU officers firing in the air to protect the hotel and its guests. However, the situation escalated on Thursday when police opened fire to disperse the crowd, leading to the reported deaths.
Tension remained high in the area as the group vowed to return. Police suspect that the group may have been incited by local leaders.
“Early this morning, Friday, 6 June 2025, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority dispatched a Rapid Response Team to investigate the fatal shooting of several people and the serious injuries sustained by others,” said IPOA Chairperson Issack Hassan in a public statement.
IPOA offered condolences to the families of those killed or injured and urged residents to stay calm as investigations continue.
“IPOA will make appropriate recommendations to the relevant State agencies and will update the public on its findings upon the conclusion of its investigations,” the statement read.
There was no immediate comment from Mr. Tunai, whose phone calls went unanswered.
This is the second deadly land dispute in the region, following the killing of six people in Angata Barrikoi under similar circumstances.
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