Panic was high in Kerio valley on Friday when over 20 security officers were attacked while inspecting the area ahead of Inspector General of Police Joseph Boinnet's visit.
Marakwet East District Deputy County Commissioner, the area Officer Commanding Police District, the District Administration Police Commander, the District Criminal Investigations Officer and a National Intelligence Service NIS official and at least 20 police officers were ambushed by bandits who sprayed their vehicle with bullets.
The officers escorting the security officials fought back before scampering for safety.
Confirming the incident, Deputy County Commissioner Eric Mulevu noted that: "The Windscreens of DAPC's vehicle are completely ripped off. But we are lucky to be alive. In fact, we had to speed off under a hail of bullets."
Mr Mulevu divulged that the bandits were against the launch of security roads in the area meant to give police officers easy access to the areas.
"Yes. They don't want the roads and that is the only reason they are attacking officials so that they can scare away," he said.
He added that no officer was hurt during the fierce gun fight.
IG Boinnet is expected in the County on Saturday where he will launch new police posts at Arror and Liter in Kerio Valley.
Bandits have been killing locals in the area with the latest record showing that over 40 people have been killed.
Earlier in the month, Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi's uncle was killed following a raid at his home in Marakwet East, Kerio Valley.
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