Eight individuals were injured in fresh violence between rival groups contesting ownership of a 1,200-acre tract at Samburet Estate, located on the border between Kericho and Nakuru counties.
The incident occurred on Saturday, August 1, 2026, when one faction reportedly evicted the other from the disputed land, prompting retaliatory attacks upon their return.
Among the injured, seven were admitted to Kericho Central Hospital, while one was treated at Siloam Hospital. Most victims are employees of Browns Tea Plantation, a stakeholder in the area.
Accounts from the Victims
- One victim described attackers forcing entry into a home at night, breaking windows and doors, assaulting a woman, and forcibly removing him from the premises.
- Another injured worker reported being struck with a panga and slapped before being ordered to sit down.
- A third victim recounted being shot with arrows while fleeing on a motorcycle, sustaining multiple arrow wounds.
Background of the Dispute
The Samburet Estate has been the focus of a protracted ownership conflict involving Browns Tea Plantation, private land firms, and members of the Ogiek community. This ongoing dispute has led to repeated violent confrontations over the past three months.
As of Saturday evening, police had not released an official statement, and it was unclear if any arrests had been made in connection with the clashes.
