The recovered animals/HANDOUT
The National Police Service said the recovery was made on October 13, 2026, after security officers pursued the suspected bandits and overpowered them.
“The multi-agency team pursued, engaged and overwhelmed the bandits, leading to the recovery of the stolen livestock,” the service said in a statement.
The recovered animals were positively identified and returned to their rightful owners, according to the police.
The service commended the security team for its prompt response and resilience, reaffirming its commitment to tackling banditry in the region.
“The National Police Service, working collaboratively with other security agencies, remains steadfast in its commitment to dismantling banditry countywide,” it said.
The recovery comes amid continued security operations targeting livestock theft and armed banditry in northern Kenya, where raids have raised concerns over the safety of herders and their livelihoods.
On October 1, suspected armed bandits raided several manyattas in the Line “P” area of Loiyangalani Subcounty, Marsabit County, stealing more than 600 goats and sheep.
Police said the raid occurred at around 5.30am and left one man reportedly dead from gunshot injuries. His body was taken to the mortuary pending further procedures.
Following the incident, police officers and National Police Reservists launched a pursuit of the suspected raiders in an effort to recover the stolen livestock.
The security team proceeded towards Lonjorin, where they joined Anti-Stock Theft Unit officers and National Police Reservists from Samburu North.
However, the operation faced challenges after suspected bandits blocked roads with trees along the route towards the Lonjorin and Tum border.
An armoured vehicle belonging to the Anti-Stock Theft Unit managed to access the area but came under heavy gunfire as the suspected bandits drove the stolen animals towards Tum and Parkati areas of Samburu North.
Police said the area remained difficult to access, with officers continuing efforts to pursue the suspects and recover the animals.
The incident heightened security concerns along the Marsabit-Samburu border, which has previously experienced livestock raids and armed conflict.
The affected counties are among those targeted by Operation Maliza Uhalifu, a government security initiative aimed at tackling banditry.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has also outlined plans to support livelihoods in affected areas through subsidised agricultural inputs and extension services, alongside security measures.
The government has said it wants communities to participate actively in efforts to end livestock rustling and pursue legitimate economic activities.
