Kindiki puts Pokot cattle rustlers on notice
The government has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the issue of cattle rustling and banditry attacks in the volatile Rift Valley region.
The most affected regions by this security threat include Kerio Valley in Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, Baringo, Laikipia, Turkana, and Samburu.
On October 11, 2023, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki said the government has taken necessary measures to restore peace in the affected areas.
Also read: Eldoret police nab five in car theft syndicate
List of places King Charles III, Queen Camilla will visit in Kenya
Ababu Namwamba on the spot for allowing star athlete Faith Kipyegon to travel economy class
“We are well aware that the ongoing cattle rustling and banditry attacks in these areas have caused instability. We will do everything within our power to restore peace and ensure that criminals do not terrorize innocent people,” Prof Kindiki affirmed during his appearance before the Senate Assembly in Nairobi.
The top security boss appeared before the Senate to provide an overview of the country’s security status and the government’s plans for enhancing security in areas plagued by banditry attacks and terrorism.
These plans include the recruitment of more National Police Reservists (NPS) to support security agencies in restoring order and peace.
However, Prof Kindiki disclosed that an additional 200 NPS have already been deployed in Baringo, 140 in Turkana, and 205 are yet to be sent to West Pokot.
“In the case of West Pokot, they are awaiting training, and Turkana has requested an additional 400 National Police Reservists,” the Cabinet Secretary stated.
To address banditry attacks and cattle rustling in these hotspot areas, both the previous and the current governments have adopted the use of NPS, who are recruited from the local communities, trained, and then deployed.
Kerio Valley, West Pokot, Baringo, Laikipia, Turkana, and Samburu have a long history of cattle rustling and banditry attacks.
Numerous people have lost their lives, some have been displaced, and others have permanently relocated from their homes due to the looming threat of attacks.