A shootout between police officers and suspected cattle rustlers in Isiolo County on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, resulted in one fatality.
The gunfire exchange occurred as officers pursued a group of bandits believed to have stolen livestock from residents in the Kiwanja area, a region that has experienced ongoing cattle rustling activities.
The incident unfolded after the local community alerted the National Police Service (NPS) about the theft of cattle.
Distressed calls were made by the affected residents, reporting the loss of their livestock to the bandits. In response, a multi-agency security team was swiftly dispatched to track down the criminals.
The police officers caught up with the bandits, who refused to surrender and instead opened fire. This led to a fierce gun battle between the police and the rustlers.
Tragically, during the exchange, a civilian was fatally wounded. Law enforcement officers successfully recovered 19 heads of stolen cattle and two firearms from the suspects. The livestock was returned to its rightful owners after the police identified the cattle.
The NPS has been actively conducting "Operation Maliza Uhalifu," an initiative launched in February 2023 aimed at tackling cattle rustling and recovering illegal firearms in Kenya’s North Rift and North Eastern regions.
The operation has seen significant progress in curbing criminal activities and restoring peace to areas plagued by insecurity.
The government has identified specific counties—such as Isiolo, Turkana, West Pokot, Baringo, and Samburu—as being highly affected by pastoralist militias engaged in cattle rustling.
"Maliza Uhalifu" is a joint operation that brings together law enforcement agencies, military personnel, and the National Police Reserve (NPR), volunteers who support local security efforts.
The initiative aims to not only recover stolen livestock but also dismantle criminal networks and ensure the safety of residents in regions historically marked by insecurity.
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