Two Killed After Protesters Storm Police Post in Gem Amid Gold Mining Dispute

By Shakland Masese 

Two people have been shot dead after police opened fire on a group of protesters who stormed a police post in Gem Constituency, Siaya County, during demonstrations linked to a controversial gold mining project.

The incident occurred at the Ramula Police Post, where a group of demonstrators reportedly defied police orders to disperse. According to local sources, the protesters, some believed to have come from Mwibona area in neighbouring Vihiga County were opposing the operations of a licensed gold mining firm in the region.

Witnesses say the demonstrators had earlier disrupted transport along the Ramula to Luanda Road, blocking it with stones and debris before marching toward Ramula market. Tensions escalated when the group approached the police post and began hurling stones, damaging property and setting a tractor ablaze within the compound.

Police officers initially fired warning shots in the air in an attempt to disperse the crowd, but the situation reportedly spiraled out of control as protesters continued to confront security personnel. In the ensuing chaos, two youths were fatally shot, forcing the crowd to scatter.

Norbert Komora confirmed the incident, attributing the unrest to alleged external incitement and warning that authorities would take firm action to maintain law and order. He noted that similar incidents had been reported in the past, raising concerns about recurring tensions in the area.

The unrest is linked to growing discontent among residents over gold mining activities in parts of Siaya County and neighbouring regions. While the government has issued licences to investors as part of efforts to boost local economic activity, some community members have raised concerns over land use, environmental impact, and lack of adequate public participation.

Area Member of Parliament Elisha Odhiambo condemned the violence, urging affected communities to pursue grievances through lawful channels. He also called on relevant authorities to enhance public engagement around the mining project to prevent further conflict.

The incident highlights the growing tension between development initiatives and community concerns, as well as the challenges faced by authorities in balancing security enforcement with public dissent.