The National Police Service has reported the recovery of 45 stolen cattle in Turkana County following a coordinated multi-agency security operation in Aroo Sub-County.
According to the NPS in a statement on Sunday, the operation was launched after security officers received information that livestock stolen from Pokot North Sub-County last month had been driven to Namakat Village in Kalemngorok Sub-location.
The officers recovered the animals but came under attack from suspected bandits while escorting the livestock to a secure location. The security team repelled the attack and secured the recovered cattle, which are being held pending identification by their rightful owners.
The recovery comes a week after another operation in Laikipia County saw security officers recover 35 cattle and 45 sheep and goats stolen in the Kopoi area, Kuri Kuri Sub-location.
"Their swift pursuit denied the suspects the opportunity to disappear into the dense forest. Following the trail, the officers successfully recovered all thirty-five head of cattle and forty-five sheep and goats, which will be handed over to the rightful owner," NPS said.
The National Police Service said the swift response followed a distress report from a resident, allowing a multi-agency team to pursue the suspects and recover the livestock before they could escape.
"The success of these operations reflects the unwavering commitment, courage and sacrifice of security officers in their duty to protect life and property," the NPS said.