SEVEN people, including National Police Service reservists, were killed on Saturday when coordinated cattle rustling attacks hit several villages in northeastern Kenya, according to local authorities. The violence has raised security concerns in a region that has long experienced conflicts over resources.
The attacks took place near the Meru Isiolo border, about 270 kilometers northeast of Nairobi. In this area, communities often share grazing lands, which has historically caused tensions, especially during times of drought and when livestock is scarce.
Meru County Commissioner Jacob Ouma said that armed groups launched almost simultaneous attacks on multiple villages. Both civilians and reservists who tried to protect their communities were killed, and several others were injured.
Authorities confirmed that more than 600 animals were stolen and taken away during the attacks. Security forces have been sent to track down the attackers and retrieve the livestock as investigations are ongoing.