Police in Trans Nzoia shoot two men in land dispute

Monday, 24th April 2023

Police in Chepchoina, Trans Nzoia County shot and injured two men in a heated land dispute between residents and the Agricultural Development Corporation (ADC).

According to a report by Citizen TV, the two sides each claim rightful ownership of the 1,500-acre piece of land, with locals protesting the move by the corporation to till the land before a court matter is settled.

The residents sought to show their disapproval at the ADC’s decision to make use of the land, which they insist belongs to them.

In a bid to disperse the protesters, police shot the two men who were taken to the Kitale Referral Hospital for treatment.

“They were planting on the farm and did not want any residents around. In the commotion, I tried to escape but they shot me, then took me to hospital,” Citizen TV quoted one of the victims, Gideon Kipsang, to have said.

Thirty families here claiming ownership of the land which they claim was occupied by their forefathers.

“What I know about this parcel of land is that it is rightfully ours. Our grandfathers told us that this land belongs to us, and they showed us its title deed. I have seen it. It is in court,” said one of the residents who identified himself as Micah.

“They shot two of our children. The police officers attacked us because of our presence here,” another added.

The locals say the ADC was out of step to use the land awaiting the determination of a case in court due for direction on the 8th of May.

The ADC however maintains the locals are invaders who have been frustrating their efforts to till the land.