Eight people have been injured, one of them critically, following renewed clashes over alleged cattle theft along the Transmara West area in Narok County and the Bomachoge Borabu border in Kisii County.
Speaking to the Kenya News Agency, Transmara West Sub County Police Commander Mr. Gatuko Joseph confirmed that the dispute began when a cow and a calf were stolen from the Kisii side.
“It’s unfortunate that peace has been disrupted between these two border communities. The root of these skirmishes lies in the theft of a cow and a calf from Kisii, which were destined for Transmara,” Mr Gatuko explained.
He added, “These two communities have much in common, and we have enjoyed long-standing tranquility. We have not witnessed such an anomaly of peace in a long time.”
The conflict, which erupted on Sunday, escalated as rival groups clashed using bows and arrows, resulting in eight individuals being wounded. The injured were taken to Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital (KTRH) for treatment of arrow wounds, with one victim currently in critical condition in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
“Maintaining peace is essential so that we can thoroughly investigate this incident and identify the culprits, especially those involved in the cattle theft,” urged Mr. Gatuko.
To restore calm, security agencies have deployed General Service Unit (GSU) officers along the volatile Kisii-Transmara border. Security chiefs from both regions convened a day-long crisis meeting with local leaders and residents to establish lasting peace.
Frustrated by the recurring cattle rustling conflicts, residents call for a permanent solution, while authorities caution against mob justice and emphasis the need to pursue lawful resolutions.
By Lamech Willy.A
