Tension high as five injured in Kakuma attack

A section of Kakuma Refugee Camp in Turkana County. [File, Standard]

Five people sustained injuries in an attack by suspected refugees from the Kakuma Refugee Camp.

The incident has raised concern about growing tension between the host community and refugees.

Local authorities said investigations have been launched to establish the motive of the attack and identify the perpetrators.

The victims, including Jane Akai who sustained minor injuries, have called for a thorough investigation into the incident that happened on Tuesday.

"I attempted to flee when they stormed my house but they caught up with me," Akai told The Standard.

"They didn't say what I had done wrong and I didn't recognize them. All of them were strangers," she added.

Akai received medical attention at a local health facility. She expressed concern over the sudden hostility in the area.

Turkana West MP Daniel Epuyo condemned the attack and called for swift action from the police.

Epuyo highlighted past incidents of violence involving refugees and called for lasting solutions to the underlying issues.

"This is not the first time refugees have caused disharmony in Kakuma," he said, "leaders, police, and UNHCR must come together to find a permanent resolution to this issue."

He said previous attacks have resulted in fatalities and urged authorities to take the matter seriously.

"Our people are suffering in silence," Epuyo said. "Many cases have been reported, but the perpetrators remain at large."

The MP called for the de-registration and deportation of any criminal identified as a refugee. He also demanded justice for families affected by the hostilities in Kakuma.

Residents called for strict measures to ensure security.

Turkana West sub-county police commander David Muracha assured residents that the police are working with the UNHCR to apprehend the suspects.

"We are working diligently to arrest the individuals responsible for this attack," Muracha said.

"We assure the community that justice will be served," he added.