At least six more people were killed in renewed inter-clan clashes in Matagala, Tana River County, raising the death toll to 18 as tensions continue to escalate.
Dozens more have been hospitalized, and multiple homes were burned to the ground in the latest wave of violence, despite the recent deployment of military and multi-agency security teams to the area.
The fighting, which began about a week ago in the Anole area, has since spread to nearby villages, including Nanighi.
According to officials, hundreds of residents have fled these communities seeking safety, as the situation remains volatile.
The conflict is believed to have been sparked by the relocation of flood victims from along the banks of the Tana River to areas near the Garissa-Hola road, a decision that angered local pastoralist groups.
These groups, who use the land for grazing, claim ownership of the area designated for the resettlement and have accused authorities of encroaching on their traditional grazing land.
Coast Regional Commander Roda Onyanja, who recently visited the area, emphasized ongoing efforts to restore peace, assuring residents that security forces were working around the clock to contain the violence.
However, the situation remains dire, with reports of more clashes and fatalities even after security officials reassured the community.
Coast Regional Police Commander George Seda called on residents to assist in identifying individuals with illegal firearms, noting that these weapons have been used in the attacks.
He highlighted that the violence began on October 4, when five people were fatally shot in Anole, while two others were injured.
A retaliatory attack that same day in Nanighi led to the deaths of four more people and the destruction of homes.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja stated that security teams, including reinforcements from the National Police Service and the Kenya Defence Forces, have been mobilized to stabilize the area.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has also launched an investigation to track down those responsible for the violence.
“We have scaled up security operations, and we call on the public to cooperate with authorities by reporting any suspicious activities,” Kanja said.
The escalating conflict has seen the use of firearms, bows, and arrows, complicating efforts to de-escalate the situation.
Some community members accuse local politicians of inciting the violence, claiming that they have been stoking inter-clan tensions for personal gain.
Last month, three people were shot dead in an IDP camp in Tana River under unclear circumstances, adding to the growing concerns about security in the region.
Five political leaders from Tana River County were recently summoned by the National Unity and Integration Commission to discuss measures to address the ongoing violence.
The commission is investigating allegations of incitement and land-related disputes between the communities.
Residents continue to demand that those responsible for the attacks be brought to justice and are calling for the arrest of individuals in possession of illegal firearms.
The continued violence underscores the challenges faced by local authorities as they work to mediate a lasting resolution to the land and resource disputes that have long plagued the Tana River region.
