Security officers in Isiolo County have arrested two suspects and recovered 41 stolen animals in a well-coordinated operation in the Bonji Dam area. The operation was conducted after reports of livestock theft were made at the Basa Police Post, prompting a swift response from a multi-agency security team.
The recovery included 16 sheep and 25 goats, all of which had been stolen a day earlier. Authorities confirmed that the suspects are currently in custody pending arraignment, while the recovered animals are being held at the police post before being handed back to their rightful owner.
The crackdown highlights the ongoing efforts by security agencies to curb livestock theft and banditry, crimes that continue to affect pastoralist communities in northern Kenya. Police reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating with local residents and security partners to safeguard property and enhance safety in regions prone to such attacks.
This latest operation comes just days after another successful recovery of stolen livestock in Meru County. In that case, officers recovered 77 cattle in Tigania East following a night raid. The operation involved personnel from various units, including the General Service Unit, Anti-Stock Theft Unit, Rapid Deployment Unit, and National Police Reservists. The suspects were intercepted near Ngato Dam after the victims reported the theft at Kangeta Police Station.
Livestock theft remains a persistent challenge in Kenya’s arid and semi-arid regions, where animals are not only an economic resource but also a key cultural asset. For many families, the loss of livestock translates into financial hardship, food insecurity, and, in some cases, violent conflict between communities.
Authorities have increasingly relied on intelligence-led operations and joint patrols to combat the menace. By involving both local communities and specialized police units, the strategy aims to ensure timely response to incidents and discourage repeat attacks. Recent recoveries in Isiolo and Meru are seen as a sign that coordinated approaches are bearing fruit.
The two arrested suspects in Isiolo will be arraigned in court once investigations are concluded, while efforts continue to track down other individuals linked to the theft. Residents have been urged to work closely with security personnel by reporting suspicious activity to ensure further success in curbing livestock-related crimes.
