Rangwe, Homa Bay County | February 2026
Residents of Gem Sori Kachiena location in Rangwe Sub-County are mourning the death of a 61-year-old man who was killed following a long-standing land dispute.
The deceased, identified as Joseph Owuoth, died after an altercation linked to a contested piece of land involving a head teacher of a comprehensive school in the area.
According to Gem Central Location Chief Peter Oula, the incident occurred after Owuoth discovered that the disputed land had been ploughed, destroying his maize crop, which was nearing harvest.
Dispute Escalates Into Violence
Chief Oula said the disagreement initially led to a verbal confrontation between the two parties before Owuoth’s brother intervened and temporarily calmed the situation.
However, several hours later, the head teacher reportedly returned with his brother, who is also a teacher, and the confrontation escalated into a physical attack.
Owuoth sustained serious injuries during the incident, while his wife was also injured. Both were rushed to Kisii County Referral Hospital, where Owuoth was pronounced dead on arrival. His wife was admitted in critical condition and continues to receive treatment.
The case was pending in the court
The area chief confirmed that the land dispute had been in court for several years and that a hearing was scheduled for February 18.
“They had taken the matter to court and were expected to attend a court proceeding on February 18. The land had been contested for many years,” Chief Oula said.
He added that local administrators had previously attempted to mediate the dispute without success and advised the parties to seek legal redress.
Call for Lawful Dispute Resolution
Chief Oula urged residents to resolve disputes through lawful means and avoid violence.
“I urge our people to abide by the rule of law. There are many avenues for resolving disputes without causing harm or loss of life,” he said.
Police Launch Investigations
Rangwe Police Commander Magdalene Chebet confirmed that investigations into the incident have been launched.
“Our team of investigators is on the ground, and some officers will travel to Kisii where one of the victims is receiving medical care,” Chebet said.
Police have not yet announced any arrests as investigations continue.
