Ethiopia hands back arms and 200 animals

The Ethiopian government has handed back 200 animals and surrendered three guns in an effort to reconcile members of the Turkana and Merille communities.

The animals, including 48 cows and 146 goats and sheep, were handed over to a Kenyan delegation led by Turkana North district commissioner Jack Opuo at Todonyang’ police post on the border of the two countries.

Ethiopia has also arrested eight of its citizens suspected to be behind the renewed attacks between the two communities.

“Reconciliatory efforts are going on to have the two pastoral communities co-exist peacefully and engage in income generating activities to improve their livelihoods,” said Mr Opuo.

The Ethiopian delegation was led by Mr Molloko Wubneh, the chief administrator of the South Omo zone.

Merille raiders from Ethiopia killed 14 Turkanas last month and drove away more than 200 animals.

The government reacted by setting up a police base at Todonyang’ and sent in additional security personnel to contain further attacks.

“A number of security measures have been put in place to restore peace and order along the border with Ethiopia,” said Rift Valley provincial police officer Francis Musyambu.

More than 40 people were killed and 300 animals stolen in May during a raid by the Merille on Todonyang’.

The fresh fights have interrupted fishing in Lake Turkana, which is an alternative source of income for members of the two pastoral groups.