Tension high in Angata Barikoi as state moves to quell chaos

Tension remains high in Angata Barrikoi, Trans Mara South, following the killing of five people during violent clashes between police and residents on Monday.

More than 15 people were injured in the chaos, including two police officers who were struck by arrows.

The injured officers have been transferred to Kisii Level 5 Hospital and AGC Tenwek Hospital for specialised treatment.

On Tuesday, the Angata Barikoi trading center was inaccessible, with roads blocked by fallen trees, boulders, and stones.

Police officers patrolled the area, but attempts to clear the road were met with resistance from residents, who accused security forces of using excessive force and killing innocent civilians.

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Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Mohammed Amin led a high-ranking security team to the area to assess the situation and engage in discussions with community leaders in an effort to diffuse tension.

Several leaders were also present, including Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, Belgut MP Nelson Koech, Chepalungu MP Victor Koech, and former Bomet Governor Isaac Ruto.

The leaders addressed residents at Angata Barikoi Primary School.

However, the meeting was interrupted when residents insisted that Murua Dikirr MP Johanna Ngeno be present before discussions could continue.

Senator Cheruiyot had to dispatch a helicopter to airlift the legislator from his constituency to the meeting venue.

The aftermath of the protests was still visible, with the charred remains of six vehicles—including two government vehicles from the Land Registry and the Rapid Deployment Unit (RDU)—at the scene.

Protesters had barricaded roads leading to the site with tree trunks and other debris.

Authorities have launched investigations into the chaos.