Police recover 215 stolen animals in Meru raid

Some of the cattle recovered by the Anti Stock Theft Unit on March 26, 2024. (Handout)

By Hanifa Adan | 27 Mar 2024

The Anti Stock Theft Unit facilitated the retrieval and transfer of the animals to Bullo Astu Camp in Naathu.

Meru police have successfully recovered 215 livestock suspected to have been stolen by bandits in Ngitatu on Monday.

The theft, involving a total of 260 cattle and eight donkeys, occurred in Ngitatu Antuambui, Igembe North sub-county.

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The Anti Stock Theft Unit facilitated the retrieval and transfer of the animals to Bullo Astu Camp in Naathu.

Meru County Commissioner Jacob Ouma oversaw the return of the stolen livestock to their rightful owners at a ceremony held at the camp.

Representatives from the sub-county Security Intelligence Committee and National Police Reservists, along with livestock owners, attended the event.

"Through concerted efforts by law enforcement agencies, 209 cattle heads and all 8 donkeys were successfully recovered and returned to their rightful owners," Ouma said.

Livestock owners' representative, Isaac Ntarangwe, expressed gratitude to the security agencies for their efforts.

"I urge the patrol to intensify efforts to recover the remaining stolen stock. I will ensure to provide timely information on any suspicious activities observed in the northern grazing area," Ntarangwe said.

Ouma warned against providing inaccurate information on stolen livestock and emphasized the prosecution of perpetrators. He highlighted the possibility of collaboration between local grazers and external bandits, stressing the importance of community vigilance.

Ouma called for prompt reporting of incidents and advocated for the provision of armored vehicles to enhance security units' effectiveness.

Additionally, he emphasized the importance of treating intelligence information seriously and enlisted support from Non-Governmental Administrative Organizations in gathering intelligence on potential collaborators.

"The event served as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the community in the face of adversity while underscoring the critical need for sustained vigilance and collaboration in safeguarding livelihoods and ensuring peace in the region," he said.