Police in Garbatula, Isiolo County, on Sunday recovered 300 goats stolen from two herders following a pursuit that forced suspected livestock rustlers to flee and abandon the animals.
The goats were safely returned to their owners as security agencies intensified operations against livestock theft, reaffirming their commitment to restoring lasting security in pastoral communities.
According to the National Police Service (NPS), officers from Garbatula Police Station responded immediately after receiving the report, demonstrating rapid operational readiness.
The pursuit led officers along the trail of the stolen livestock to the Malkandaka area, where the suspects were eventually cornered.
Police encountered five suspected rustlers at the location, but the suspects fled upon spotting the officers, abandoning the stolen goats and evading arrest.
Security agencies have since launched follow-up operations to track down the suspects.
The recovered goats were secured and returned to their rightful owners, bringing relief to the affected herders whose livelihoods depend heavily on livestock.
Police described the recovery as a significant success in ongoing efforts to curb livestock theft in pastoral regions.
The National Police Service said the operation underscores its commitment to protecting pastoral communities from criminal activities that threaten economic stability and social cohesion.
Livestock theft remains a persistent challenge in arid and semi-arid areas, often disrupting livelihoods and fuelling insecurity.
As investigations continue, police have intensified anti-rustling operations, deploying enhanced patrols and strengthening collaboration with local communities.
The Service emphasised that intelligence-led policing remains central to preventing and responding to livestock theft.
Authorities noted that cooperation between residents and security agencies plays a critical role in recovering stolen livestock and dismantling criminal networks involved in rustling.
Community members were urged to continue sharing timely information to enable swift police response.
The National Police Service reaffirmed its determination to restore lasting security in pastoral areas, saying sustained operations will remain in place to deter criminals and reassure residents.
Officers have been instructed to maintain heightened vigilance, particularly in known livestock theft corridors.
Police further assured residents that efforts to arrest the suspects are ongoing and that those responsible will be held accountable in accordance with the law.
