Tensions erupted in a Kericho County village after a Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) soldier was killed in a violent confrontation at Mtaragon trading centre, Kipkelion West constituency.
According to police reports, the soldier got into an argument with a group of young men at a local establishment, which escalated into a physical fight. Despite attempts by other patrons to intervene and rush him to the hospital, he succumbed to his injuries before receiving treatment.
Kericho County Police Commander James Ngetich stated that the deceased was off duty at the time of the incident. News of his death spread quickly, prompting angry villagers to retaliate by searching for the suspects. When they failed to find them, they torched their homes and businesses, intensifying the unrest.
Several structures were destroyed before security forces were deployed to restore calm. Ngetich condemned the destruction of property and urged residents to allow authorities to handle the case through legal channels.
Police have launched investigations to track down the attackers, while additional security personnel have been deployed to prevent further retaliatory attacks. The soldier’s body has been moved to a local mortuary for an autopsy and further investigations.
Authorities have also raised concerns over the rising cases of mob lynching, warning that some victims may be falsely accused and unlawfully killed. Police continue to emphasize that justice should be left to the legal system.
