This archive report was first published on 2 January 2022.
Published on January 2, 2022, the situation in Kerio Valley remains volatile, with recent clashes resulting in the loss of two more lives.
On December 15, 2021, a man was pictured sitting on a car rooftop at Kaptubei centre in Kerio Valley, a stark reminder of the dangers faced by locals due to the poor state of the Biretwo-Tot-Chesegon road.
West Pokot Governor John Lonyangapuo had warned that the bandits would be named and handed to security agencies, stating, "Anyone with an illegal gun should be disarmed. Sadly, an attack is ongoing at a time when we are praying for peace,"
Elgeyo Marakwet Deputy Governor Wisley Rotich called for a speedy resolution to the insecurity in the area, citing the risks of prolonged conflict leading to the proliferation of illegal firearms.
Locals in Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, and Baringo counties have reported that the attacks have degenerated into inter-community fights, with Kiptoo Sutter, a resident of Endo, stating, "It has turned from cattle rustling into revenge attacks between communities,"
Meanwhile, former Inspector General of Police David Kimaiyo attributed the failure to end the menace to a lack of cooperation among leaders.
