Firearm Recovered In Thika, Police Hold SuspectSAMBURU COUNTY, KENYA — On Thursday, a high-stakes police operation in the remote Marti area of Samburu County ended in triumph after security forces recovered 59 stolen livestock following a fierce gunfight with armed cattle rustlers.
The livestock, belonging to a herdsman in the Nchalai area of Angata Nanyuki, had been stolen by suspected bandits armed with AK-47 rifles. But their escape was short-lived.
Responding swiftly, a multi-agency security team comprising the General Service Unit (GSU), National Police Service (NPS), and National Police Reservists (NPR) launched a hot pursuit through the rugged and often dangerous terrain.
“The operation was swift and deliberate,” said Inspector David Lempus, who led the response unit. “We intercepted the raiders, exchanged fire, and successfully recovered all stolen animals. The herdsman was also rescued unharmed.”
Eyewitnesses say the sound of gunfire echoed across the hills as the officers engaged the rustlers in a dramatic standoff that lasted nearly an hour.
“We were terrified,” said Nchorum Lele, a resident of Angata Nanyuki. “But the police came fast and brave. Without them, those cattle would be long gone.”
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The recovered animals have since been safely returned to their rightful owner, and no injuries were reported among the security personnel or civilians.
Samburu County Commissioner Julius Kariuki lauded the operation and warned rustlers that the days of impunity are over.
“Let this be a message to all cattle thieves—Samburu is not a playground for lawlessness,” he stated. “The government is watching, and we will respond swiftly.”
Cases of livestock theft and armed banditry have long plagued northern Kenya, especially in pastoralist communities. However, authorities say coordinated operations are beginning to yield tangible results.
NPS Spokesperson Resila Onyango confirmed continued surveillance in the region.
“Our officers remain on high alert. We’re working round-the-clock to secure every part of the country, particularly areas vulnerable to banditry and intercommunal violence.”
As part of its broader security strategy, the National Police Service is urging residents to report any suspicious activities through the toll-free hotline 999 or the nearest police station.
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