Rustlers' raid leaves two herders dead in Igembe

Suspected cattle rustlers killed two Meru herders at Mariara in Igembe central on Tuesday evening.

Kenya Police reservists, who were with the herders, engaged the raiders in heavy gunfight and managed to recover 130 goats goats.

Speaking to the Nation on phone, Meru North Peace committee chairman Charles Kamwibua said the raiders struck at around 6pm.

“The two herders who were killed near General Service Unit camp have been identified as Mr Peter Muriungi and Mr Daniel Mukaria. They were attacked by six raiders from a neighbouring community who were heavily armed. The herders were shot in the gun fight before the raiders fled,” Mr Kamwibua said.

He said the bodies were yet to be collected by Wednesday morning as the nearby GSU camp had no vehicle.

“We have communicated with Rapid Deployment Unit officers to provide a vehicle,” he said.

Mr Kamwibua however said the grazing zone had experienced peace for long since Interior Cabinet Secretary Joseph Nkaissery visited the area declared a firearm mop up.

GRAZE IN GROUPS

The incident comes few days after Meru County Commissioner Wilfred Nyagwanga advised herders in the Meru grazing zones to be vigilant and graze in groups for security reasons.

Mr Nyagwanga, who noted that incidences of cattle rustling had reduced in the last two months, advised herders to remain cautious as bandits could strike any time.
(READ: Five killed as cattle raiders attack village)

“We urge herders, especially those in the areas prone to banditry, to be cautious during this festive season. Lone herders are easy targets to cattle rustlers. Raiders might take advantage of the festive mood and strike to steal their animals but security officers will be on standby to address any eventuality. The habit of grazing alone must stop to help avert raids,” Mr Nyagwanga said.

The County Commissioner also noted that several animals that were stolen in the last one year have been recovered.

He urged the residents to cooperate with the security agents and give information whenever they feel there is insecurity in the grazing zone.

SHARE INFORMATION

“Residents should work closely and share information with police. The national government has armed the police reservists to ensure there is security in the grazing fields” Mr Nyagwanga added.

Meru County police coordinating commander, Benjamin Chebon said a special unit of Administration Police has been deployed in the grazing areas to conduct patrols.

“Currently we are having a Quick Response Unit that is conducting patrols in the grazing zone. The residents must work closely with the officers instead of accusing them,” Mr Chebon said.

In neighbouring Isiolo County, police on Monday shot dead a suspected cattle rustler and recovered an AK47 riffle with two rounds of ammunition.
A man hunt has been launched to arrest 12 others who escaped.