By Peter John

Two people were shot dead on Monday after demonstrators stormed Ramula Police Post in Gem, Yala sub-county, Siaya County, police have said.

Gem Sub-County Police Commander Charles Wafula said the two were part of a group protesting against a licensed gold mining firm that is seeking to operate in the area.

He claimed the protesters were from Munungo area in neighbouring Vihiga County.

Wafula said the demonstrators first blocked the Ramula–Luanda road before marching to Ramula market and later forcing their way into the police post, where they allegedly hurled stones, broke windows and set a tractor that was parked within the compound on fire.

Police said officers initially fired warning shots but opened fire after they were overwhelmed, killing the two youths on the spot as the crowd dispersed.

Siaya County Commissioner Nobert Komora confirmed the incident, saying the bodies were taken to Yala Sub-County Hospital mortuary.

Gem MP Elisha Odhiambo condemned the violence and urged residents to pursue dialogue over the mining firm’s operations.

He also appealed to Vihiga residents not to drag Ramula residents into disputes, warning against lawlessness.