Tension remained high in Isinya town, Kajiado East Constituency, after a dispute between boda boda riders which started on Wednesday escalated into tribal confrontations that left one person dead and several others injured.
According to Kajiado County Commander Alex Shikondi, the chaos began when a boda boda rider from one of the conflicting groups transported a man who accidentally paid for the service twice. When the passenger asked for a refund, the rider allegedly refused, sparking an argument that quickly turned violent.
The confrontation spread through the town as groups of riders and residents from both sides engaged in running battles. Police confirmed that two motorbikes were burnt during the initial violence, and two more were torched on Thursday as tension persisted.Seven people were arrested in today’s confrontation.
An elderly man reportedly lost his life today after inhaling teargas smoke lobbed by police during the chaos. Several people sustained injuries as security officers struggled to restore order in the town.
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Businesses remained closed throughout the day as residents fled for safety. Learning institutions also suspended classes as the situation worsened, bringing normal operations in Isinya to a halt.
Efforts by local authorities and police to calm the situation proved difficult as both sides refused to negotiate. Police patrols were intensified to prevent further loss of life and property.
Kajiado Central Member of Parliament (MP) Memusi Kanchory condemned the incident, terming it a tragic display of intolerance.
He said it was unfortunate that a simple misunderstanding could cost lives, emphasizing that Kenyans must embrace unity despite their differences. “It is deeply saddening to see Kenyans with the same struggles fight each other,” he said in his statement.
The MP expressed condolences to the families affected by the unrest and urged residents to maintain peace, saying such incidents had never occurred in Kajiado before and should not be tolerated.
As investigations continue, police have assured residents that security operations will remain in place until calm is fully restored in Isinya.
By Benedict Aoya
