•About 3000 residents wanted to purchase the privately owned land leading to disputes over the years, officials said even as tension mounted in the area.
•Area police boss Alasyo Mureithi said another victim was cut by a sharp object believed to be a panga amid the chaos and the suspect involved has been arrested.
At least three people were shot and wounded on Friday during a land dispute in Mowlem, Endebess Region, Transnzoia County.
The altercation occurred as police attempted to oversee an eviction, prompting them to open fire and use tear gas to disperse the group.
The police asserted they acted in self-defense after being pelted with stones by the group.
Their intervention was aimed at enforcing a court order to resolve a land dispute that has lasted for 40 years.
About 3000 residents wanted to purchase the privately owned land leading to disputes over the years, officials said even as tension mounted in the area.
Area police boss Alasyo Mureithi said another victim was cut by a sharp object believed to be a panga amid the chaos and the suspect involved has been arrested.
The injured individuals were taken to a local hospital and are currently in stable condition, according to the police.
Law enforcement officers remain stationed at the contested land due to ongoing tensions.
Authorities have called on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority to conduct an investigation into the shooting incident.
Land dispute cases are on the rise amid claims some top government officials are involved in some of the incidents.
Police have been urged to be fair in dealing with the disputes.