Kenya’s Interior Cabinet Secretary Announces Crackdown on Livestock Rustling in Isiolo

Isiolo – Interior Cabinet Secretary Prof. Kithure Kindiki has issued a stern ultimatum to criminals involved in livestock rustling, giving them two weeks to return all stolen animals or face the full force of the law. This declaration comes in response to the ongoing issue of livestock theft, which has resulted in the loss of lives, including those of security personnel.

According to Kenya News Agency, the Kenyan government is committed to providing modern security equipment, including drones, to monitor and dismantle the hideouts of cattle rustlers. This announcement was made during the official handover of 201 camels, previously stolen and recovered, at the Mlango Anti-Stock Theft Unit. The ongoing security operation, ‘maliza uhalifu,’ will extend to six counties in the North Rift and include the counties of Meru, Isiolo, and Marsabit.

The operation aims to target criminals while allowing normal activities for the Wananchi unless they are harboring offenders. Kindiki directed Rift Valley Regional Commissioner Dr. Abdi Hassan and Eastern counterpart Paul Rotich to outline a roadmap for the operation within seven days. He highlighted that the operation in the North Rift has already reduced crime by 70 percent and warned that the government will not spare those behind these criminal activities.

Additionally, the government plans to recruit 350 National Police Reservists to support security in remote areas. These reservists are expected to work closely with local administration officers. Prof. Kindiki also mentioned that resources would be allocated to local elected leaders and elders who assist in the return of stolen animals.

In his hardline approach, Kindiki stated that chiefs and their assistants in areas with active criminals will be dismissed and prosecuted. He equated cattle rustlers with the terrorist group Al-Shabaab, indicating that security officers are authorized to protect Kenyans and their properties by any means necessary.

During the announcement, which was attended by a regional security team from Rift Valley and Eastern, as well as elected leaders including Governor Abdi Ibrahim Guyo and Isiolo Women Rep. Mumina Bonaya, Kindiki emphasized the government’s determination to recover all stolen properties.

Somali Council of Elders’ Secretary General Iddle Hassan and locals, including Oldonyiro Ward MCA David Lemantile, expressed their support for the operation, citing the urgent need to address the threat posed by illegal firearms and the ongoing violence affecting innocent people in the region.