Bandits continued to be a security menace in the North Rift after two daring attacks in Samburu and Elgeyo Marakwet Counties on Wednesday, April 5.
The bandits were able to maneuver a heavy security presence in the region consisting of officers drawn from Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and the National Police Service (NPS).
In the two attacks, three people were killed and scores were seriously injured and the bandits managed to flee with an unknown number of livestock.
In Samburu County, two people were killed during the attacks in the bandit-prone Samburu West region.
In Elgeyo Marakwet one person lost his life and three were admitted to the hospital with serious injuries.
The bandits in recent times have been launching simultaneous attacks in different regions to outsmart security officers.
This thins out the security presence in the regions making it possible for the bandits to steal livestock.
The raids continue to intensify despite the government’s efforts to quell the menace in Turkana, West Pokot, Baringo, Samburu and Elgeyo Marakwet counties.
On Monday, April 3, the bandits in another daring move raided former National Assembly Speaker Ole Kaparo's home which is located near a police station.
Kaparo revealed that his home had been raided by around 20 armed bandits.
The operation which has lasted for two months is conducted through a joint operation between KDF and the NPS.
On Monday, March 13, the government in its second phase of the operation to eliminate bandits added the number of KDF officers to the bandit-prone regions.
They were also equipped with sophisticated artillery including the dreaded L118 Light Guns, a 105 mm towed howitzer.
The government further evacuated residents from regions suspected to harbour the bandits on Monday, March 13.
The areas included the following regions; Ng’elecha Hills and Gorges, Ramacha and Losokoni Caves, Laramoru Gorges, Karau Hills, Noosidan Escarpment, Rugus Caves and the Amaya Gorges at the interface of Baringo, Laikipia and Samburu Counties.
