A coordinated security operation by police and reservists has led to the full recovery of livestock stolen in Meru County, after officers engaged suspected bandits in Isiolo County and forced them to flee.
The National Police Service (NPS) said a joint team of officers from the NPS and the National Police Reservists (NPR) recovered 22 head of cattle during the operation.
The animals had been reported stolen earlier at Mutuati Police Station in Meru County.
“In a successful multi-agency security operation, a team comprising officers from the National Police Service and National Police Reservists tracked and recovered 22 head of cattle,” NPS said in a statement.
Police said the operation culminated in Kampi Samaki area of Garbatula Sub-County in Isiolo, where officers intercepted suspects believed to be behind the theft. A shootout followed as security teams confronted the bandits.
“The team intercepted the suspected bandits in the Kampi Samaki area of Garbatula Sub-County, Isiolo County, where a fierce exchange of fire ensued,” the statement said.
According to the police, the suspects abandoned the stolen livestock and escaped after encountering resistance from the security team.
“Faced with the coordinated response, the bandits fled the scene, abandoning the stolen livestock,” NPS said.
The recovery of the 22 cattle brought the total number of animals recovered in the case to 52, marking the complete recovery of the stolen herd.
Police said all the animals were found alive and in good condition.
“All 22 animals were recovered alive, bringing the total number recovered in this case to 52 and marking a full recovery of the stolen herd,” the statement said.
The livestock were later escorted under armed security and handed back to their rightful owner, bringing relief to the affected family.
The National Police Service said the operation demonstrates the effectiveness of joint security efforts in addressing banditry and livestock theft in the region.
Authorities noted that such crimes remain a major concern in parts of northern Kenya, where pastoralist livelihoods depend heavily on livestock.
“The National Police Service reassures the public that security operations within the region remain robust and sustained,” NPS said.
Police also urged residents to continue cooperating with security agencies by sharing timely intelligence that can help prevent crime and support rapid response.
“Communities are encouraged to continue co-operating with security agencies by sharing timely information, as the Service remains steadfast in its commitment to protect life and property,” the statement added.
Security teams are continuing with operations in the area as they pursue the suspects who escaped during the confrontation.
