Tension remains high in Baringo County after two people were shot dead earlier this week by suspected bandits at Loberer along the Marigat-Chemolingot road, sparking protests and renewed fears of escalating insecurity in the region.
The two victims, who were headed to the Nginyang livestock market, were ambushed in separate lorries during the attack. One driver died on the spot, while a trader in another vehicle succumbed to injuries while being rushed to the hospital.
The killings triggered mass protests by residents, who took to the streets to voice their frustrations over rising insecurity and alleged police negligence. During a meeting convened to address the situation — bringing together the Baringo security team, local MPs, and community elders — residents accused police officers of laxity and corruption. They alleged that instead of focusing on combating banditry, officers were using roadblocks to extort bribes from motorists, and demanding exorbitant fees for private escorts through the disturbed areas.
In response to the accusations, Baringo County Commissioner Sangolo Kutwa assured residents that investigations were underway and that security agencies had obtained crucial leads to track down the perpetrators. “We will not rest until the killers are brought to justice,” Kutwa said.
Area leaders, including Mogotio MP Reuben Kiborek, Eldama Ravine MP Musa Sirma, and Baringo North MP Joseph Makilap, appealed for calm among the residents, warning that heightened tensions could easily spiral into inter-community conflicts in the volatile Kerio Valley region.
The latest attack adds to growing concerns over the resurgence of banditry in parts of Baringo, undermining efforts to restore peace and stability in the county.
