The National Police Service (NPS) and the Independent Police Oversight Authority (IPOA) have taken action following violent clashes between police officers and residents at the Duka Moja Trading Center in Narok County.
The unrest disrupted operations and led to the transfer of all police officers from the Duka Moja and Ntulele Police Stations.
Government Intervention
During a peace meeting held on Saturday, Director of Operations at the NPS, William Ole Yiampoi, announced the decision to replace the officers.
“I want to assure you that by Monday, we will have transferred all the officers and replaced them with a new batch,” Ole Yiampoi stated. “We will not just bring any police officers but will ensure they have a clean record and no infractions in their previous posts.”
Protests Turn Violent
The clashes were sparked by the death of 39 sheep, which were run over by a speeding Prado on Thursday night. Outraged herders took to the highway on Friday, blocking the road and disrupting transport operations.
What began as a peaceful protest quickly escalated into violence, with residents and police engaging in a 24-hour standoff. The confrontations left three people dead, nine police officers injured, and caused extensive damage in the area.
One police officer, whose arm was severely injured during the clashes, was flown to Nairobi for specialized treatment. The most notable incident saw residents overpowering a police officer, severing his arm, and confiscating his firearm.
Restoring Calm
During the Saturday peace meeting, it was reported that the stolen firearm had been returned to the police. Efforts to restore order in the region were ongoing, with residents beginning to cooperate with authorities.