Police probe Trans Nzoia political clashes after two officers injured

Police probe Trans Nzoia political clashes after two officers injured - Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja at a past event. (Photo: X/National Police Service)

The NPS condemned the conduct of politicians allegedly involved in the incident, saying preliminary reports indicated that the Public Order Act, Cap 56, had been contravened.

Two police officers were injured and two government vehicles damaged during an incident in Kitale, Trans Nzoia County, on Friday, according to the National Police Service (NPS).

The incident occurred amid heightened political tensions in the region, with Linda Mwananchi supporters and those of the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) reportedly clashing in Kitale following President William Ruto’s development tour of the county.

In a statement issued on Friday, the NPS condemned the conduct of politicians allegedly involved in the incident, saying preliminary reports indicated that the Public Order Act, Cap 56, had been contravened.

“The National Police Service (NPS) strongly condemns the conduct of certain politicians who contravened the Public Order Act, Cap 56, in an incident that occurred today, October 16, 2026, in Kitale, Trans Nzoia County,” the statement read.

The NPS said the incident undermined public order and the rule of law while endangering public safety and security.

“Two law enforcement officers sustained injuries, and two government vehicles were damaged,” the statement added.

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The Service added that it had launched investigations to establish the full circumstances of the incident and would take appropriate action against anyone found culpable.

“Investigations have commenced to establish the full circumstances of the incident. Upon their conclusion, appropriate action will be taken against any person found culpable, in accordance with the law,” the statement read.

It also urged political leaders, their supporters and other stakeholders to exercise restraint and respect the rule of law.

“The NPS calls upon all political leaders, supporters and other stakeholders to uphold peace, restraint and respect for the rule of law at all times,” the statement said.

The Service warned that political affiliation or public office would not shield anyone found to have broken the law.

“The NPS reaffirms that no person, regardless of social status, political affiliation or public office, is above the law,” it added.

The incident comes against the backdrop of political tensions in Trans Nzoia, including a public disagreement between Ruto and Governor George Natembeya over the planned launch of a market in the county. The dispute centred on the project's funding and which level of government should preside over its launch.

The NPS reiterated that it remains apolitical and impartial in fulfilling its constitutional mandate to serve and protect the public.