At least three people were shot dead and several others, including police officers and journalists, were injured when protests erupted in Kakamega on Thursday, December 4, over relocation plans.

The chaos ensued after villagers in Isulu, Ikolomani constituency, began protesting against the intention of Shanta Gold Company to take over their land for gold mining.

Officials from the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and Shanta Gold Company investors had visited the area to hold a public participation forum about the relocation plans when the protests began.

The agitated residents reportedly blocked NEMA and a group of investors from accessing Emusali Primary School for the public participation forum.

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Reports indicate that Shanta Gold Company had proposed the relocation of over 800 households after the discovery of gold deposits worth Ksh683 billion.

During the protests, the residents blocked roads within Ikolomani town with rocks and set a bonfire, disrupting businesses within the area.

According to a police report, most of the victims were goons reportedly hired to attack a team of journalists covering gold miners’ protests.

The latest incident comes a fortnight after Mining Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai today held a consultative meeting with the leadership of Shanta Gold company over the exploration of minerals in Western Kenya.

Their discussions centred on the ongoing gold mining projects in Siaya, Vihiga, and Kakamega counties, with a particular focus on the strategies and commitments required to ensure the project’s long-term success and positive impact on local communities.

It also follows a month after Shanta Gold discovered Ksh683 billion worth of gold deposits Isulu and Bushiangala area, with the company getting the government's nod on the project. 

The company announced that it plans to invest between Ksh22 billion and Ksh27 billion ($170 million to $208 million) to develop the underground mine and a processing plant.

According to sources privy to the information, the project is expected to operate for an initial period of eight years, with potential for extension through further exploration.