Police in Narok disperse irate mob protesting insecurity

A tense scene unfolded along the Narok–Bomet Highway in Narok County when an irate mob of residents, largely composed of boda boda operators, barricaded the road in protest against a spate of violent crime that has gripped the town. Police responded by using tear gas to disperse the crowd after demonstrators set tyres ablaze and blocked traffic for hours, demanding urgent action against what they described as a gang terrorizing their community. Kenya News+2Kenya News+2
The protest was sparked by the brutal killing of a 55-year-old watchman, whose body was discovered along Ololulunga junction, said to have suffered a deep cut to the head. Kenya News Residents accused the police of failing to arrest suspects, fueling growing frustration. Leading voices in the crowd, including Joshua Kaputa, chairman of the Narok Peace Committee, alleged that organized criminal gangs from outside the county have been operating with impunity. Kenya News The demonstrators also highlighted persistent thefts in the area, with boda boda operators noting that they close business as early as 8 pm to avoid dangers. Kenya News
Reactions from county and religious leaders were swift. Narok Governor Patrick Ntutu condemned the killings, while the Narok East MP Ken Aramat called on security forces to arrest and prosecute those behind the violence. Kenya News Bishop Peter Nakola, a prominent faith leader, mourned the death of the victim, saying he was an honest man who worshipped in my church. Kenya News On the ground, police reaffirmed their commitment to stepping up patrols, but some residents remain skeptical, accusing the security team of inertia. Kenya News+1
Looking ahead, local authorities say they are ramping up security measures to restore calm. The county security team, headed by County Commissioner Isaac Masinde, announced plans to scale up patrols and has considered establishing a permanent police post in K24 Estate – a hotspot in recent unrest. Narok County Government Meanwhile, residents are urging long-term reforms, such as better street lighting and community reporting mechanisms, to stem the wave of crime and prevent future protests.