Outrage in South Turkana as KDF soldiers linked to killing of local police reservists

Three days after two Kenya Police Reservists from Kaputir were allegedly gunned down by Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) soldiers stationed at the Loyapat camp in South Turkana, grief and outrage ripple through the villages. 

Families of the slain officers are crying out for justice, demanding accountability and punishment for what they call a senseless act of betrayal by security personnel.

A Kenya Defence Forces armored military vehicle stands parked on the edge of Kaputir in Turkana South, its engine silent but its presence heavy. 

The KDF, meant to protect and defend Kenyan citizens, now faces public outrage after being accused of killing those on the same side of the law.

Nearby, a woman collapses to the ground wailing. Here, grief and disbelief remain raw three days after Eyapan Loluk and Simon Lomowas Ekaru, National Police Reservists serving in Kaputir, were allegedly gunned down by KDF officers stationed at the Loyapat camp.

“Alitoka na pikipiki yake akakutana na KDF, aliinua mikono lakini wakamvunja miguu. Mungu ndiye atajua, sisi hatuna uwezo wa kushindana na KDF. Sisi tukijua KDF ataweza kuua askari mwenzake,” said one resident.

Simon Lomowas leaves behind three widows and 18 children, while Eyapan Loluk leaves behind a widow and nine children.

“Sasa tutaenda wapi? Nani atalipia watoto shule? Watoto wetu watateseka,” said Jane Ikimat, widow.

As residents continue to express outrage over the incident, accusations against the KDF persist.

“We want the KDF officer who killed the NPR officers to be brought to justice before a military court,” said Turkana Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai.

“Serikali inageuka serikali,” said Turkana Woman Representative Cecilia Ishuu.

“We had Major Nyasi and Major Kahara, and things were okay. But this recent incident has been very bad. Even if there are changes in the army, we must address this, it is a serious mistake,” said Turkana Deputy County Commissioner Gideon Ombongi.

Kenya Police Reservists are the community’s first line of defense, serving on the frontlines where the state’s presence is often thin. 

Dressed in official uniforms and armed to protect the community, they bridge the gap between civilians and security forces. But their recent deaths at the hands of fellow officers raise painful questions about how those meant to defend the nation turned their weapons on their own.