Tension high as cattle rustling returns to Loosuk, Samburu

Tension is high in Loosuk village, Samburu County following a fresh offensive by suspected cattle rustlers who made away with over 20 animals.

The raiders, suspected to be from the neighbouring Pokot community are also suspected to have stolen cows from Laikipia County a few days ago.

Area Chief Philip Lerno said that the incident is a big blow to the peace and stability that was being experienced in the area.

He, however, urged residents to remain calm as the relevant authorities try to recover the stolen animals.

Lerno also asked the affected people not to seek revenge but instead allow the government agencies to deal with the matter.

After the incident, Administration Police boss Philip Ozeni said they had heightened security and patrols to prevent further raids.

Loosuk village was for a longtime a battle field between the Samburu and Pokot communities but the two communities resolved to work together and end the conflict, something that has seen relative calm return to the area for a couple of years.

This comes barely two weeks after one person died and another one seriously injured following a two-hour gunfight between two warring communities in Marti Village, Samburu County.

Speaking then, Samburu County Commissioner Mohammed Balik issued a stern warning to raiders that the government would deal with them mercilessly in a bid to promote peace in the region.

On his part, Samburu Governor Moses Lenolkulal called on the two communities to uphold peace, noting that Marti was one of the most peaceful villages in the area where members of the Turkana and Samburu communities coexist well.

Local leaders also pleaded with the national government to step in and assist the county government in dealing with the cattle rustling menace.

Samburu residents also expressed their frustration at the security team which they claimed was ineffective as they have suffered frequent attacks.

Lenolkulal, however, urged security officers to be more alert and recover the stolen animals speedily.