Tension remains high in Turkana County after two National Police Reservists (NPR) were allegedly shot dead by Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officers in Kaputir area, sparking widespread protests across the region.
The incident, which occurred on Sunday, October 26, 2025, triggered demonstrations in Kaputir, Kalemorok, and Kainuk as residents condemned the killings and demanded justice for the slain officers.
Angry residents barricaded the busy Lodwar–Kitale highway in Kalemorok using stones, thorns, and burning tyres, completely halting transport. The blockade left motorists and passengers stranded for more than 24 hours, forcing many to spend the night in the cold as they waited for the road to reopen.
Turkana Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai, who visited Kalemorok to calm tensions, strongly condemned the incident and called for the immediate withdrawal of KDF troops from Turkana County. He accused the military of using excessive force and causing unnecessary loss of life among civilians and security volunteers.
According to the governor, initial reports indicated that the two NPR officers were on a motorbike returning from their duty of protecting the Logum community along the River Turkwel irrigation bank when they were shot by KDF personnel.
“One was shot in the head, the other in the chest and leg, both fully dressed in official NPR uniforms and carrying government-issued firearms,” Lomorukai said.
The county boss pledged to engage senior officials from the Ministry of Defence to ensure accountability and justice for the victims’ families.
Turkana has witnessed escalating insecurity in recent weeks, with three Kenya Police Reservists killed in separate attacks and another officer currently receiving treatment at Lodwar County Referral Hospital.
Governor Lomorukai also urged the national government to intensify efforts to flush out armed bandits hiding in the Turkana South Game Reserve to restore lasting peace in the North Rift region.
