The latest outbreak of violence is reported to be a revenge attack by Pokomo farmers on semi-nomadic Orma.

“About 150 Pokomo raiders attacked Kipao village which is inhabited by the Ormas early Friday, but the Ormas appeared to have been aware and were prepared. A confrontation ensued and as result 19 Ormas and 9 Pokomos were killed,” Robert Kitur, Coast Region deputy police chief, told reporters.

Police reinforcements and emergency officials are being flown to the scene, while the wounded are being taken to the port city of Mombasa for treatment, Kitur added.

Animosity between the two communities over land and water resources has existed for decades.