Two people lost their lives on Monday, April 6, in Gem-Ramula, Siaya County, after protests over a disputed gold-mining site turned violent.
The incident happened when a group of demonstrators attempted to force their way into Ramula Police Post, accusing authorities of allowing what they described as an illegal eviction in favour of a mining company.
According to area police boss Charles Wafula, the protesters had not informed authorities about the planned demonstration.
He said the situation quickly escalated when the group began attacking officers and vandalising property at the police post.
Police vehicles and parts of the station were damaged during the chaos.In the course of the unrest, a tractor that had been parked nearby was set on fire, adding to the tension and destruction witnessed in the area. Officers responded by attempting to restore order, but the confrontation intensified as the crowd became more aggressive.
Police later deployed live ammunition to control the situation, resulting in the fatal shooting of two young men. The deaths have since raised concern among residents and leaders in the area, with calls for calm as investigations continue.
Siaya County Commissioner Norbert Komora blamed the violence on individuals he said had incited the protesters.
He warned that those responsible for encouraging such actions would face consequences, stressing that unlawful demonstrations and destruction of property would not be tolerated.
Authorities have urged residents to follow legal procedures when raising grievances and to avoid actions that could lead to further loss of life or damage.
Security remains heightened in the area as officials monitor the situation to prevent further unrest.
