Tensions erupted in northern Kenya on Thursday after police reportedly opened fire on protesters in Moyale, leaving at least three people injured during violent clashes linked to alleged abductions and opposition to a planned security camp.
Witnesses said the demonstrations began peacefully early on May 14 before descending into chaos after anti-riot police moved in to disperse crowds using teargas and live ammunition. One of the injured is believed to have suffered a gunshot wound, although the exact circumstances surrounding the shooting had not been independently verified by the time of publication.
The protesters had gathered in Moyale town demanding the immediate release of former Chief Dabassa Dambi and respected community elder Gurach Dambala, who residents claim were abducted by security officers under unclear circumstances.
Anger among locals has also been fuelled by plans to construct the proposed Tittu security camp, a project some residents argue has heightened tensions in the region rather than improving security.
“We only wanted our leaders released and our concerns heard,” one witness claimed as crowds scattered amid heavy teargas. “People started running after gunshots were heard.”
Videos and images circulating on social media appeared to show running battles between police and demonstrators as heavily armed officers attempted to push crowds away from key roads and government offices.
Activists on the ground alleged that at least three protesters were shot during the confrontation, though authorities had not yet confirmed the casualty figures by Thursday evening.
The injured were rushed to Moyale Sub-County Referral Hospital as tensions continued to rise across the border town, with large groups chanting anti-government slogans and demanding accountability from security agencies.
The unrest quickly spread beyond Moyale, with similar demonstrations reported in Saku, Sololo and Bori Junction in Marsabit County. Residents in the affected areas expressed outrage over what they described as arbitrary arrests and enforced disappearances targeting community leaders.
By Thursday night, security remained heightened across parts of Marsabit County amid fears the protests could escalate further if the grievances raised by residents are not addressed.
Authorities had not issued an official statement regarding the alleged shootings or the claims of abduction at the time of publication.
Also Read: Prof Ayub Gitau Appointed New University of Nairobi Vice-Chancellor