This archive report was first published on 6 August 2019.
November 15th, 2017, marked a tragic day for the people of Turkana and Baringo counties as three police officers lost their lives in an ambush by bandits at the volatile border of the two counties.
The officers, who were returning from Kapedo after delivering food rations to the police camp in Lomelo, were ambushed on their return journey by the bandits. The attackers reportedly shot at their vehicle, killing the three officers instantly.
A contingent of other police officers who were sent to save the ambushed one was also caught in the melee, leaving ten with injuries. One police officer is reportedly missing with his whereabouts unknown.
According to sources, a 16-year-old boy was also killed in the shootout that ensued between the bandits and the police.
Mr. Wanyama Musiambo, the Rift Valley police coordinator, confirmed the attacks but refused to divulge more details.
This is not the first time that the police have been ambushed by bandits in the regions. Hundreds of police officers have been killed in previous battles with the bandits in the conflict-prone area.
The area residents and leaders called for calm and urged the government to beef up security in the area.
