This archive report was first published on 14 October 2021.
Laikipia Bandit Attacks Escalate Despite Security Operation ¶
Laikipia County has been plagued by bandit and cattle rustling attacks, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 people and the displacement of over 400 families in the past two months.
Despite the government's launch of a security operation involving over 400 police officers, armoured personnel carriers, and military choppers, the attacks continue to escalate. At least five civilians have been killed since the operation began.
On Sunday, suspected armed bandits staged a daring attack in a village in Laikipia West, shooting dead three people and stealing 32 cattle and two sheep. The bandits later engaged security officers in a shoot-out, but the stolen animals were recovered near the Laikipia Nature Conservancy cutline.
Residents and local leaders have blamed the government's hesitancy to restore peace in the region for the escalating conflict. Laikipia Senator John Kinyua said the police have lost the battle against banditry and that gangs of bandits roam confidently in the villages, killing people at will.
Laikipia West MP Patrick Mariru questioned the effectiveness of the security operation, saying that bandits were still coming out, killing residents, and returning to their hideouts in the reserve. Ol Moran MCA George Karuiru described the bandits as well-coordinated and reasonably trained, while Githiga MCA Peter Thomi called for President Uhuru Kenyatta to intervene.
