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Kakamega: Fatalities and Destruction Reported Amidst Protests and Allegations of Police Violence

Published 3 days ago3 minute read
Kakamega: Fatalities and Destruction Reported Amidst Protests and Allegations of Police Violence

Luanda village in Likuyani constituency, Kakamega County, is reeling from the aftermath of violent protests that led to the tragic deaths of several individuals. The unrest was ignited by the alleged killing of Sydney Lihanda by a Nyumba Kumi elder, Simon Siashipira, and quickly spiraled out of control, resulting in clashes between residents and police. The situation was exacerbated by accusations of excessive force by the police, including the use of live ammunition, leading to further fatalities and injuries.

Edwin Wanjala is among those grieving, having lost his pregnant wife, Sarah, in the chaos. According to reports, Sarah was shot dead by police during the protests. Wanjala's anguish is palpable as he struggles to come to terms with the loss. He recounted the last conversation he had with his wife, where she warned him not to come to Kona Mbaya due to the unsafe conditions. Sadly, Sarah and her sister were allegedly shot by the police. Their father, Ernest Wanyama, is demanding justice for his daughters, emphasizing that they were unarmed and posed no threat to the authorities.

"The police have killed my wife just like that. Are they truly police officers or thieves? What will I do?" Wanjala asked, overwhelmed with grief. Family members tried to console him, but his pain was too profound. Sarah's mother, Everlyne Wanyama, also called for justice, expressing her sorrow and demanding that those responsible be held accountable.

The events unfolded after residents protested the death of Sydney Lihanda, who allegedly succumbed to injuries sustained during an assault by Simon Siashipira and others. In retaliation, angry villagers burned Siashipira's home. Police were deployed to restore order, but the situation escalated, with residents accusing the officers of using excessive force. Eyewitnesses reported that police used live ammunition and tear gas to disperse the crowd, resulting in further casualties.

Likuyani MP Innocent Mugabe has condemned the police actions, calling for an immediate investigation into the officers involved. He urged Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Inspector General Douglas Kanja to take swift action. Nzoia Ward MCA Collins Sifuna Chapurukha echoed these sentiments, expressing the community's anger and pain.

Adding to the unrest, another story emerged from Majengo, Nairobi county, where residents protested the killing of 17-year-old Ibrahim Ramadhan, who was reportedly shot dead by police following violent protests. Demonstrators blocked roads and attacked police cars in their quest for justice.

The families of the victims are demanding justice, insisting that their loved ones were innocent victims caught in the crossfire. The community remains firm in their call for Siashipira and the police officers accused of the killings to face the law.

In a separate incident, a family in Kakamega is seeking justice after their 15-year-old son died following punishment by Nyumba Kumi officials. The family is demanding accountability, insisting that those responsible be held to justice.

The incidents in Luanda village and Majengo highlight the ongoing tensions between residents and law enforcement, raising serious questions about police conduct and the need for accountability.

From Zeal News Studio(Terms and Conditions)

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