Editor's Review

Despite the provocation, Murkomen commended the conduct of the police officers involved.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has condemned a recent incident in Nakuru where a protestor was captured on video brandishing a panga at police officers. 

Speaking on Friday, June 13, Murkomen highlighted the importance of upholding law and order, urging citizens to respect law enforcement personnel. 

The CS further expressed dismay at the fact that some citizens, particularly on social media, appeared to support the violent act.

"I request the citizens to respect the authority of the police because without it there is anarchy. I saw one citizen in Nakuru, when the police were trying to bring calm, he was carrying a panga; attacking a police officer and yet you will find some citizens cheering him," he said.

Despite the provocation, Murkomen commended the conduct of the police officers involved, praising their restraint in the face of potential harm.

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"I really want to thank the police officers who have restrained themselves in such situations,” he added.

The widely shared video shows a man confronting police officers while holding a panga, as the officers attempted to disperse crowds and restore calm.

File image of the protestor wielding a panga

This comes months after an officer in Narok had his hand chopped off and gun stolen following a confrontation with herders.

In a statement dated Friday, January 17, the National Police Service (NPS) attributed the chaotic protests to an accident that saw 25 sheep killed.

NPS confirmed that over 2,000 herders took to the streets to demand justice, adding that they blocked the road, prompting the deployment of officers.

However, as the officers tried to calm the situation, some individuals turned rowdy and cut off the hand of one of the officers.

NPS noted that the officer had to be airlifted to Nairobi for specialized treatment.

"Today on 17/01/2025 at 1100hrs, a group of about 2000 protesters barricaded Narok-Mai Mahiu Highway at Duka Moja Trading Centre, demanding compensation for the 25 sheep which were killed in a non-injury accident on 16/01/2025 along Narok-Mai Mahiu Highway at Mitimbili area.

"The Officers tried to calm the situation, but the crowd turned more violent, prompting the Officers to fire blanks and tear gas to disperse the crowd. In the process, nine Officers were seriously injured," NPS stated.