Turkana County police have made a breakthrough in combating local crime after arresting three suspects linked to a recent burglary in Lokichar. Officers recovered a variety of stolen items, including electronics, household goods, and a motorcycle, bringing relief to affected residents.
The National Police Service confirmed that all seized items were identified by the owners and are now held as official exhibits. The suspects are awaiting arraignment, with investigations ongoing to ensure that all involved are brought to justice.
Recovered items included a red TVS motorcycle without a number plate, a mattress, a Dell monitor, a computer keyboard and mouse, an ETR machine, a 200-watt solar panel, an HP CPU, a black woofer with three speakers, and a yellow Hashi gas cylinder.
A stolen 200 W solar panel recovered by officers from Lokichar Police Station.
A stolen red mattress recovered by officers from Lokichar Police Station.
A stolen black woofer with three speakers recovered by officer from Lokichar Police Station.“All the recovered items have been positively identified by the complainants and secured as exhibits,” the NPS said in a statement.
The arrests come amid increasing concerns over theft and burglary in Turkana County.
According to local data, 70 percent of residents report experiencing stock theft, including cattle rustling, nearly double the national average of 37.2 percent.
House-breaking and burglaries are also reported at higher rates than in most other counties, fueling worries about public safety.
Security challenges in Turkana are further complicated by banditry and clashes between communities in arid and semi-arid areas. Between 2012 and 2022, at least 82 security personnel were killed in bandit-related incidents across ASAL counties, underlining the scale of the threat.
In response, the Government and local leaders have strengthened security measures, including deploying additional police reservists, establishing fortified border posts, and improving intelligence-sharing with residents.
Cross-border operations with Ethiopia have been intensified following earlier clashes that left more than 20 people missing.
The NPS emphasized its dedication to maintaining law and order, stating, “The National Police Service reiterates its commitment to intensifying intelligence-led operations and community partnerships aimed at combating crime across the country.”
Officers also urged locals to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity promptly. “The Service continues to urge members of the public to report suspicious activities promptly and to collaborate with law enforcement officers to enhance safety and security within their communities.”
Locals have expressed relief at the arrests and the recovery of stolen property, seeing it as a positive sign that law enforcement is actively responding to crime in the area.
Police confirmed that they will continue to follow leads and carry out operations to ensure those responsible for the burglary face justice.
The recent arrests and retrieval of stolen items reflect the importance of proactive policing in Turkana, where persistent theft and burglary threaten livelihoods and community stability.
