This archive report was first published on 11 May 2021.
On May 11, 2021, a significant breakthrough was made in the ongoing battle against livestock theft in Laikipia County. A multi-agency security team successfully recovered about 200 cows that had been stolen by armed bandits and taken to the neighboring Baringo County.
Laikipia County Police Commander Maxwell Nyaema led the operation, which aimed to track down bandits and livestock raiders in a bid to end the menace. According to Nyaema, the bandits fled after realizing that the police were in hot pursuit.
The operation has also led to the recovery of about 72 illegal firearms from unlicensed gun holders in the two counties. Nyaema emphasized that the heavy police presence will continue to be a feature in the area to enhance security in the region.
He warned parents who abet the vice, stating that those not taking their children to school and allowing them to indulge in criminal activities will be held accountable.
Residents of the area praised the move by the Government to recover the animals, saying livestock theft has left a majority of them poor and sick. They claimed that the bandits were too daring, committing raids in daylight and at night with total disregard for the heavy presence of security personnel.
