By Jackline Wilfred – Isiolo
A joint operation involving several security agencies has been launched in Isiolo County to apprehend the perpetrators behind a series of recent livestock theft and banditry attacks in the region.
The operation is focused on the areas of Onabulle, Abudjidera, and Kambi Garba, where locals have faced severe disruption and loss of livestock to suspected bandits.
In a press briefing held today, Deputy Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli urged the public to cooperate closely with security forces to bring the criminals to justice.
He appealed to residents to report any suspicious cases of injured individuals seeking medical treatment, as these could be the bandits involved in the attacks.
“I call upon the members of the public to report any case of injured people who are seeking treatment in hospitals since they might be the suspected bandits,” Masengeli said.
The banditry incidents have been particularly devastating for the local communities. According to Masengeli, the stolen livestock included 250 cows and 300 goats, but through the efforts of the security agencies and the National Police Reservists (NPR), a significant portion of the stolen animals have been recovered.
“I am pleased to inform you that we have managed to recover all 300 goats and 25 cows, and in another incident in Onabulle, 211 stolen cows were recovered,” he said.
The operation has not been without its casualties. Two people were confirmed dead and three others were injured in Kambi Garba, where they were evacuated to Isiolo Teaching and Referral Hospital for treatment.
In Onabulle, one person lost his life, and several others, including NPR officers, were wounded in a gunfight. Two bandits were fatally shot across the River Ewaso Ng’iro during the ongoing operation.
In his address, Masengeli assured the public that the government is fully committed to addressing the security challenges facing Isiolo County. “I appeal to the members of the public and those affected to remain calm. We are doing our level best to ensure that we recover the animals and ensure that the culprits are brought to book and prosecuted,” he said.
He also warned the criminals involved in the banditry to cease their attacks, emphasizing that the government is on high alert and is actively pursuing all leads to ensure peace and security in the region.
“The government is closely monitoring the situation, and investigations are underway to ensure that everyone in this country can live peacefully,” Masengeli added.
This latest operation follows a troubling rise in banditry-related violence in Isiolo County, where a series of attacks in recent weeks have left both livestock and lives lost. The security forces’ swift response is seen as a step toward restoring order in a region long plagued by such incidents.
