West Pokot leaders convoy comes under attack – KBC

A convoy of three Members of Parliament from West Pokot county and the governor’s security team was Tuesday afternoon attacked at Lami Nyeusi area along the Kitale-Lodwar Highway.

It is alleged that the convoy was attacked by police officers attached to Kainuk Administration Police station.

The convoy had three local MPs Samuel Moroto (Kapenguria), Peter Lochakapong [Sigor] and Mark Lomunokol [Kacheliba].

The leaders and the security team were heading to Takaywa Village where one person was killed, and more than 500 heads of cattle stolen by cattle rustlers on Sunday afternoon to cool down the tension.

Fire exchange ensued between the security of the governor and the police who were said to be carrying patient to hospital.

A section of the convoy led by West Pokot County commissioner Apollo Okello, journalists and County Executive Members were forced to turn back while the governor and County commander of police Mathew Kuto managed to pass the area as bullets were sprayed on their vehicles.

Area Governor John Lonyangapuo condemned the incident faulting the security teams for poor coordination.

He called on the security team and leaders from Turkana County to return the stolen animals.

“The raid was stage managed. We need the government to beef up security in all hot spots and disarm all those with illegal firearms,” he said.

Lonyangapuo called on all elected leaders from both communities to preach peace so that the areas can continue enjoying the peace that had lasted for three years since the political leaders from both Turkana and Pokot communities conducted a peace caravan to sensitize communities on peaceful coexistence.