NCIC launches probe into deadly Samburu clashes that left five people dead
NCIC stated that it is working closely with local leaders, security agencies, and community elders to defuse tensions and foster peaceful dialogue between the warring groups.
The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has launched investigations into the ongoing inter-communal clashes in Samburu County that have left five people dead and led to the theft of about 800 livestock.
The commission, alongside law enforcement agencies, is working to establish the cause of the conflict and restore peace in the affected areas.
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In a statement issued on Wednesday, NCIC Chairperson Samuel Kobia condemned the violence, urging those involved to stop the attacks immediately.
“We unequivocally condemn these violent acts and urge all parties involved to cease hostilities immediately. Violence and conflict have no place in our communities, and the continued strife only serves to deepen division and suffering,” he said.
The clashes, which have been reported in Kilepoi Kawap Location, Baragoi, Samburu North, have raised concerns over security and stability in the region.
NCIC stated that it is working closely with local leaders, security agencies, and community elders to defuse tensions and foster peaceful dialogue between the warring groups.
“We have commenced investigations to establish the root causes of this conflict. We are working closely with local authorities, security agencies, and community leaders to de-escalate the situation and foster dialogue between the affected communities,” Kobia added.
The commission also called on political and community leaders to take an active role in promoting peace and urging residents to abandon cattle rustling and other harmful practices.
“It is imperative to abandon harmful cultural practices like cattle rustling and theft and instead explore sustainable, alternative means of livelihood. Every community matters, and each has the right to engage in livestock keeping or any other form of farming without fear of external interference or violence,” Kobia said.
The commission further urged security forces to take firm action against those responsible for the attacks, emphasising that justice must be served.
“We call upon security forces to take swift action in apprehending perpetrators of these criminal acts and ensuring they face the full force of the law. Justice must be served to protect the rights and safety of all communities as provided for in the Constitution of Kenya 2010,” the statement read.
In addition, NCIC also appealed to residents of Baragoi to remain calm and avoid retaliatory attacks.
“We appeal to residents of Baragoi to remain calm, refrain from retaliation, and actively support ongoing peace initiatives. Sustainable peace can only be achieved through mutual understanding, respect, and collaborative efforts to address underlying grievances,” Kobia said.
The commission reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace and cohesion in Samburu and across the country, vowing not to relent in its efforts to ensure lasting stability.
Area Deputy County Commissioner Samwel Mwangi said on Tuesday that multi-agency teams managed to recover about 150 animals from the attackers. He added that the teams were pursuing the attackers.
He said armed raiders stormed a settlement in the Kilepoi area and opened fire before driving away the livestock.
The injured were rushed to Baragoi and Samburu County Referral Hospital for treatment while security agencies assessed the extent of the damage.
The bodies of the victims were taken to Samburu County Referral Hospital in Maralal, where post-mortems will be conducted.
County head of health services Dr Josephat Lenguris said the injured were in stable condition.
Locals held protests over the incident while demanding swift government intervention to curb escalating cattle rustling and insecurity in the region.
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