USONGA: A violent clash between sand miners from Siaya West and Ugenya sub-counties turned deadly in Nyadorera, leaving one person dead and several others injured.

The long-standing dispute over sand harvesting rights along River Nzoia escalated into chaos when miners from both sides accused each other of encroaching on their territory.

Tensions flared during a peace meeting convened by local security officers and administrators, forcing authorities to abruptly halt the proceedings as violence erupted.

According to credible reports, sand harvesters from Siaya West claim that their counterparts from Ugenya have resorted to extracting sand from farmlands after depleting deposits along the riverbanks, a move that has led to land destruction and rising conflicts.

Sand mining has become a key source of employment for many youths in Nyadorera, but disputes over control of the resource have fueled frequent clashes.

During the afternoon altercation, the miners attacked each other, leaving several injured. The victims were rushed to the hospital for treatment.

Speaking to Kondele News via phone, Ukwala Division Assistant County Commissioner Anne Anyango confirmed that the police had launched an investigation but declined to comment further on the matter.