- The residents of Ikolomani in Kakamega violently clashed with the police over alleged plans to relocate them
- Western Region Police Commander Issa Mohamoud claimed the suspects shot were goons hired by politicians
- A resident who opposed the British-led project alleged the reason that led to the unrest, which ultimately caused massive injuries
Nancy Odindo, a TUKO.co.ke journalist, has over four years of experience covering Kenyan politics, news, and features in digital and print media.
Kakamega: At least three people have been killed and several others were injured during violent clashes over a gold mining project in Ikolomani.
Source: Facebook
The confrontation occurred on Thursday, December 4, after villagers in Isulu, Ikolomani Constituency, protested against Shanta Gold Company’s alleged plan to acquire their land for mining.
Who died in the Ikolomani clashes?
According to viral videos, the police opened fire during confrontations with residents who were also pelting them with stones.
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Western Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamoud claimed that the three slain individuals were ‘goons’ allegedly hired by local politicians.
Those injured included two police officers—a male and a female—who were critically wounded after protesters struck them with metal bars and clubs, as well as four journalists who were injured and had their phones and cameras stolen.
Mohamoud confirmed that the injured were admitted to Kakamega County General Hospital.
Protesters also blocked the Sigalagala-Butere Road, lit bonfires, and harassed travellers for several hours.
What led to violent protests in Ikolomani?
Officials from the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and company representatives had visited the area to hold a public participation forum on relocation plans when the protests erupted.
Shanta Gold Limited, a British-based mining firm, recently announced the discovery of what it described as one of Kenya’s largest gold deposits, valued at an estimated KSh 683 billion.
Reports indicated that the company proposed relocating more than 800 households following the discovery.
Agitated residents blocked NEMA officials and investors from accessing Emusali Primary School, where the forum was scheduled. They clashed with police and eventually overpowered the officers.
“We agreed that they would agree with us before sinking shafts on our land. All of a sudden, we’re now being told we should leave our land for mining. It is unacceptable,” a resident said.
Source: UGC
The incident comes two weeks after Mining Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai held a consultative meeting with Shanta Gold’s leadership on mineral exploration in Western Kenya.
Their discussions focused on ongoing projects in Siaya, Vihiga, and Kakamega counties, with emphasis on strategies and commitments to ensure long-term success and positive impact on local communities.
Did Ikolomani residents sign for relocation?
TUKO.co.ke previously reported that village elder Maurice Maliabo reported that officials allegedly visited homes under the guise of registering residents for SHA, electricity, and water connections.
Residents later discovered that the exercise was linked to relocation.
They accused President William Ruto’s government of betrayal, claiming it was part of a wider plan to displace them in favour of foreign investors.
The community also rejected assertions that public participation meetings had taken place and cautioned that any forced eviction could lead to unrest.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
