Security officers in Laikipia County on Sunday recovered 35 cattle and 45 sheep and goats stolen by suspected armed bandits after a distressed resident promptly reported the incident, enabling a swift multi-agency response.
The livestock had been driven away while grazing in the Kopoi area of Kuri Kuri Sub-location before the owner alerted authorities.
Officers who were already conducting foot patrols in the area immediately changed course and pursued the suspects, preventing them from escaping into a nearby forest.
In a statement, the National Police Service (NPS) said the operation demonstrated the value of timely reporting by members of the public and coordinated action by security agencies.
"A timely report from a distressed resident, coupled with the swift coordination of a multi-agency team, prevented what could have been the loss of his livestock in Laikipia County—reaffirming the importance of prompt reporting and rapid response in safeguarding lives and property," the statement read.
According to the NPS, the patrol team acted immediately after receiving the report and moved in the direction the stolen animals were being driven.
"Acting immediately on the information received, the team—which was already conducting foot patrols—quickly adjusted its operation and moved in the direction in which the stolen livestock was being driven," the service said.
The officers' rapid pursuit denied the suspected bandits the opportunity to disappear into the dense forest. After following the trail, they successfully recovered all 35 head of cattle and 45 sheep and goats.
Police said the recovered livestock would be handed back to their rightful owner.
The NPS reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property through coordinated security operations, adding that public cooperation remains critical in combating crime.
"The National Police Service reaffirms its commitment to protecting lives and property through coordinated operations, while encouraging members of the public to continue reporting suspicious activities promptly," the statement said.
Members of the public were urged to report suspicious activities at the nearest police station or through the toll-free emergency numbers 999 and 911, the #FichuaKwaDCI hotline on 0800 722 203, or via WhatsApp on 0709 570 000.