IPOA launches probe after three killed in Narok clashes

A piece of land in Mau Narok, Njoro on March 25, 2025. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has opened investigations into a deadly clash between police and residents of Lolkuruk village in Narok County, which left three people dead and several others injured.

The violence erupted on Thursday after residents disputed the ownership of land reportedly linked to a local politician.

Witnesses said angry youths stormed the Angama Conservancy, prompting the deployment of local police, who received reinforcement from specialised units, including the General Service Unit (GSU) and the Rapid Deployment Unit (RDU).

Officers allegedly opened fire after efforts to disperse the crowd failed, resulting in the deaths.

"IPOA has dispatched a Rapid Response Team to investigate the fatal shooting of several people and the serious injuries sustained by others on Thursday, June 5," the authority said in a statement.

"The incident occurred after police allegedly opened fire on a group of individuals who reportedly invaded a private property within the Angama Conservancy, located in Lolkuruk village, Angama Mara, Narok County."

IPOA has urged calm as investigators work to establish the facts, determine the cause of the clash, and recommend accountability for those involved.

The Lolkuruk incident comes just weeks after a similar land dispute in Angata Barrikoi, also in Narok County, where five people were killed.

Several police officers have since been transferred following the killings.