Police hunt for killer of local in Marakwet East

Rift Valley Regional Coordinator Wanyama Musiambo speaks to journalists in Kabarnet, Baringo County, on March 14, 2017. The banditry menace in Elgeyo Marakwet has left one person dead. PHOTO | CHEBOITE KIGEN | NATION MEDIA GROUP

What you need to know:

  • Elgeyo Marakwet Police Commander Tom Odera said efforts to apprehend the culprits are ongoing.
  • In February this year, DP Ruto commissioned a cohesive police reservist programme to help in tackling the problem.

One person has been shot dead in Kerio Valley by cattle rustlers.

The rustlers also stole over 40 goats and cattle during the Thursday afternoon attack at Kaptalai grazing field on Turkwel power lines in Marakwet East.

Mr Joseph Sikingi, 60, who worked as a clerk at Chesongoch health facility, was gunned down while herding his livestock.

INCIDENT CONDEMNED

His fellow herders - who were able to escape - said they were sprayed with bullets by the rustlers who were about 11.

They also killed two goats.

Mokoro chief James Sirmo confirmed the incident and said the body of the deceased was taken to Iten County Referral Hospital mortuary.

"It’s unfortunate that we have lost him, 48 goats and six cows to the attackers," Mr Sirmo said.

POLICE START OPERATION
Elgeyo Marakwet Police Commander Tom Odera said efforts to apprehend the culprits are ongoing.

"My security team is already on the ground across the Kerio Valley and we hope for a fruitful operation to apprehend the suspected killers and recover the stolen livestock," he said.

OFFICER SHOT

In February this year, Deputy President William Ruto commissioned a cohesive police reservist programme to tackle the problem.

The 230 officers are expected to end banditry that in March this year saw one reservist get injured after raiders ambushed officers on patrol.