The Commissioner of Police wishes to inform the public the accurate situation on the ground following media reports alleging the killing of 13 people during cattle-rustling incidents in Marsabit, Moyale, Samburu, Baringo and Laikipia Districts.

Dukana Area, Moyale

In December 2005, Kenyan herders crossed into Ethiopia in search of pasture following the drought in Kenya, but the animals were reportedly confiscated by local Ethiopian officials as compensation for animals stolen earlier allegedly by Kenyan rustlers. The Kenyan herders were ordered to leave Ethiopia and are now in Dukana area. Kenyan authorities in Marsabit and Moyale have sent an official request to Ethiopian authorities to have the animals and property returned to their owners.

The numbers of animals and property claimed by the Kenyan herders are:
• 1100 camels
• 4916 goats
• 7 heads of cattle
• Kenya Shillings 70,070/=

Samburu District

Between 30th March and 15th April 2006 in Samburu District, Pokot rustlers stole 1492 heads of cattle, 1502 sheep and goats and 1 donkey. During the raids, 5 Samburus were killed. In an apparent revenge attack, 2 Pokots were also killed by Samburus over the same period. Police have since recovered 144 heads of cattle.

Baringo District

On 14th April 2006, Pokot rustlers stole 12 heads of cattle from Njemps at Makutani Division. During the incident, no one was injured. Police have since recovered all the stolen animals but have so far not made any arrests.

Laikipia District

• On 10th April 2006, Pokot rustlers raided Ngare-Narok area and stole 400 goats and sheep from Maasai Herders.

• On 15th April 2006, Samburu cattle rustlers raided the Pokot in Ol Moran area and stole 100 goats and 20 heads of cattle. During the incident the raiders shot dead a 14-year old girl and injured 2 people, including a 6-year old child and a 48-year old woman who are undergoing treatment at Nyahururu District Hospital.

• Out of the stolen animals, police have so far recovered 230 heads of cattle.

As we continue to pursue the rustlers involved in the reported incidents, Police Headquarters wishes to assure Kenyans that no effort will be spared to ensure law and order is maintained throughout the country.

Thank you.

(Gideon M. Kibunjah) SSP
For: COMMISSIONER OF POLICE