Security beefed up to curb cattle rustling

Photo/FILE

The herders were grazing their goats near the Merti-Samburu East border when they were attacked by heavily-armed morans (maasai warriors).

Security has been beefed up around the scene of a weekend attack by armed rustlers in Merti that resulted in death of 10 people.

Eastern deputy provincial police boss Kipkosgei Barmao said police officers have been posted to the area around Kom, where the attack by about 300 raiders took place on Sunday morning, to prevent further attacks.

“We have sent police officers to the area to prevent any revenge attacks,” he said. Police are pursuing the stolen animals.

The Boranas, who were unarmed, were attacked as they slept in a manyatta (hut) with their livestock.

The herders have started retreating towards Abasoi area to avoid attacks by the raiders.

The herders were grazing their goats near the Merti-Samburu East border when they were attacked by heavily-armed morans (maasai warriors).

Four of the herders were killed on the spot while six of the raiders were shot dead by Administration Police officers and armed guards from the nearby Biliko-Bulesa wildlife conservancy.

The raid is the first major incident of insecurity in the area since the launch of a disarmament programme to curb cattle rustling among pastoral communities.

Meanwhile five raiders admitted to Marsabit hospital are receiving treatment under heavy police guard, while two herders admitted to Isiolo District Hospital are responding well to treatment, according to hospital sources.