Narok Clashes: IG Kanja transfers senior police officers

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has ordered the swift redeployment of top officers stationed at Ang'ata Barikoi in Trans Mara, Narok County.

This follows violent clashes that erupted on Monday, resulting in the deaths of five demonstrators.

While addressing a security dialogue with local residents and leaders concerning the disputed land, Kanja instructed the immediate removal of the area’s Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) officer.

He further directed DCI Director Amin Mohamed to recall the officer to headquarters and promptly appoint a replacement to take charge of the region.

Kanja also ordered the withdrawal of the General Service Unit Commander stationed in the region and instructed that a new officer be deployed without delay, as part of efforts to ease the prevailing tensions.

"I’ve heard your concerns about the DCIO," Kanja stated. "Mr. Amin should be recalled to the headquarters and given a different assignment. We need someone here who can truly serve the interests of the people."

He went on to say, "The GSU commander should also be redeployed to another location," a remark that was met with cheers from the gathered residents.

At the same time, Kanja disclosed that investigations were already underway regarding the incident in which five locals were shot and police officers faced violence while responding to the confrontation.

A team of investigators from the DCI headquarters in Nairobi had been deployed to the area.

Both the residents and police were cautioned that each individual involved would be held accountable for their actions.

"Investigations are already underway, and the investigators from Nairobi are here with you. They will uncover the truth, and anyone found responsible will be personally held accountable for their actions," Kanja declared.

Kanja called on the community members to refrain from escalating tensions and to assist the police in restoring order to the area.

Additionally, the Inspector General of Police urged residents to clear the roads they had blocked to allow for the unrestricted movement of people and vehicles.

Kanja was kept in his helicopter for more than an hour due to a tense reception from the locals, who insisted that several local leaders, including Emurua Dikir Johana Ng'eno, be present before the meeting could begin.