Outrage as grade 7 pupil is shot dead in Laikipia North

A Grade Seven student from Churo Primary School was killed, and two others sustained injuries during a security operation in Ratia Village, Sossian Ward, Laikipia North. The incident has sparked outrage among locals, who are calling for the removal of the Officer Commanding Ol Moran Police Station and an independent investigation by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority.

The residents, primarily from the Pokot community, claim they had an agreement with farmers to graze their livestock on harvested maize fields, for which they paid for the dry maize stalks. They assert this arrangement fostered peaceful coexistence between farmers and pastoralists. However, they accuse security personnel of disrupting this agreement and exacerbating tensions, alleging they have suffered repeated acts of violence and marginalization.

The incident allegedly happened when security officers, comprising National Police Reservists, were attempting to drive away livestock that had strayed into farms post-maize harvest. The residents contend the pupil was shot while herding his parents' livestock during the school holidays.