Leaders in West Pokot County have expressed outrage following allegations that officers from the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) caned local chiefs and police reservists during a security operation in the area.
The incident is said to have occurred under Operation Maliza Uhalifu, a government-led security mission aimed at tackling banditry and crime in the North Rift region.
According to local leaders, several chiefs from Sigor were injured during the incident and later admitted to hospital for treatment.
Leaders Condemn Alleged Assault
The claims were raised by Jane Mengich, the Member of County Assembly (MCA) for Seker Ward, who led other leaders in condemning the alleged incident.
Speaking to the media on Friday, Mengich said the chiefs and members of the National Police Reservists had attended a meeting convened by the area Assistant Commissioner before the situation escalated.
According to her account, the meeting was interrupted by KDF officers attached to the ongoing operation.
Mengich alleged that the soldiers stormed the meeting and began caning the chiefs and police reservists who were present.
Calls for Investigation
Local leaders have demanded an explanation from authorities over the alleged assault, saying chiefs and security volunteers play a crucial role in maintaining order and supporting security operations in the region.
The incident has sparked anger among residents and leaders in West Pokot, with calls for investigations into the claims and accountability if the allegations are confirmed.
