At least five people are nursing gunshot wounds following unrest in Migori Town linked to rival political gatherings, police have said.

Officers said they have launched investigations into the incident with a view to establishing the circumstances and taking appropriate action.

Police said the unrest occurred on February 13, 2026, during separate public engagements associated with two popular politicans in the county.

A police team visited the scene and recovered eight spent cartridges, which were forwarded for ballistic analysis. As part of the inquiry, firearms assigned to security personnel who were present have been taken for examination.

According to police, Migori Governor Ochillo Ayacko had been addressing members of the business community at Migori Malindi Market when Suna East MP Peter Masara arrived in the area accompanied by a group of supporters. Officers said tensions rose at the venue, leading to a confrontation between rival groups.

Police reported that security officers at the scene discharged firearms during efforts to contain the situation. Five people sustained serious injuries, while a sixth person was treated for other injuries believed to have been sustained in the melee.

The injured were taken to hospital for treatment. The two leaders were escorted away by security personnel. Police said statements are being recorded from those present, including the MP Masara, as investigations continue.

The incident followed a separate confrontation on February 12 at a burial ceremony in Oruba, Suna, in Migori County.

Police and witnesses said rival groups attending the funeral began throwing stones and other objects at each other, prompting security personnel attached to public officials to fire shots into the air in an attempt to disperse the crowd.

Witnesses said tensions escalated during speeches at the burial, leading to chaos and running battles. Security officers, including police deployed to the event, intervened and restored calm before the ceremony proceeded.

Local police said some mourners were injured during the disturbance and that investigations are ongoing.

Governor Ayako later reported the matter at Migori Police Station, alleging that some of his supporters were assaulted and that several vehicles were damaged.

Police said no formal complaint had been recorded from the MP in relation to the burial incident.

Authorities said tensions appeared to persist into the following day. They noted a rise in politically related disturbances in parts of the country and said efforts are underway to address the situation and prevent further unrest.