One killed, 2,000 livestock stolen in Baringo County raid

Baringo North constituency residents protest over past cattle rustling incidents in the area. Photo/FILE

A 50-year-old man was shot dead on Sunday night and over 2,000 livestock stolen by suspected bandits in Bargapwa Division, Baringo County.

According to Baringo North District Commissioner Joshua Ogango, about 50 bandits armed with AK-47 rifles raided Kalabata village and stole thousands of livestock.

Mr Ogango said that the bandits later headed towards the neighbouring East Pokot district.

So far, eight people have been killed in the area over the past one week in cattle rustling related incidents.

Residents who spoke to Nation complained over what they called government’s laxity in addressing rampant cases of insecurity with claims that more raiders have allegedly been spotted approaching the area.

“If the government cannot assure us of security then we should be issued with firearms so that we can protect our lives and property. We are tired of losing lives unnecessarily," said Richard Chepchomei, a resident.

He said the situation has adversely affected learning in the area with the closure of more than 20 primary schools after close to 4,000 residents fled their homes fearing for their lives.

“We wonder how children studying under such harsh conditions are expected to compete with their colleagues in other parts of the country. All schools should be provided with enough security," said Mathew Chebet, a youth leader.

Mr Chebet most of the residents displaced come from Chemoe, Kagir, Yatya and Bartabwa areas.

However, Mr Ogango said that security personnel have been deployed to the volatile areas to track down the bandits and recover the stolen animals.

“The residents should no panic as the situation is under control. We’ve beefed up security in the area. We’ve also lined up a series of peace meetings in a bid to bring together the warring communities,” he said.