The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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A 38-year-old man lost his life after suspected bandits ambushed a group searching for stolen livestock in Kongo Itari, Tigania East, Meru County.
Police reported that another person was seriously injured and is receiving treatment in hospital, triggering outrage among residents.
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The attack happened as locals, together with National Police Reservists (NPR), followed hoof prints of stolen animals in Lanyiru sub-location when they were suddenly confronted by armed assailants believed to have set up an ambush.
During the incident, Sammy Munoru sustained fatal gunshot injuries and died on the spot. His body was taken to St. John of God Mission Hospital mortuary awaiting a postmortem.
The incident underscores ongoing insecurity in parts of northern Kenya, where livestock theft and bandit attacks continue to pose a major challenge to communities.
It comes amid renewed multi-agency security operations across Meru and neighbouring counties, including Laikipia, Isiolo, and Marsabit, aimed at tackling cattle rustling.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has since declared the area disturbed and dangerous as operations intensify.
Murkomen, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, and senior security officials have visited the region to bolster efforts. Recent attacks have left at least six people dead and livestock stolen, disrupting livelihoods and raising concerns among locals.
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Authorities say the crackdown will focus on known bandit hideouts such as Mukogodo Forest, Kipsing, Ngare Mara, and Milima Lebendera in Isiolo, as well as Lentana and Sereolipi in Samburu.
Kindiki noted that elite security units with advanced equipment and air support have been deployed, with operations guided by intelligence both on the ground and from the air.
Security forces have been authorized to use lawful force to protect civilians and recover stolen livestock, as the government urges residents to stay calm and cooperate with authorities in affected areas.
