A violent livestock market raid near Sarmach Junction, close to the Turkwel River Bridge in Kainuk, ended with the recovery of dozens of stolen animals. The incident unfolded when a group of unidentified assailants stormed the market, attacking traders using crude weapons and stones. Chaos erupted as the attackers forced the traders to flee for their lives, leaving behind livestock and other belongings.
In a swift response, a multi-agency security team was dispatched to the scene. The patrol team managed to recover 22 stolen cattle and 18 goats believed to have been taken during the raid. The rescued animals were transported to the GSU Lami Nyeusi camp, where rightful owners were able to identify and reclaim their livestock under the close supervision of National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO).
The recovery effort forms part of broader security operations currently underway in the region. Security forces remain actively deployed in the area as they work to trace more stolen animals and track down the assailants responsible for the attack. The incident has raised renewed concerns over rising livestock theft in pastoral regions, particularly along the Turkana-West Pokot corridor, where cattle rustling has historically triggered inter-community tension.
Authorities emphasized that operations will continue until the area is stabilized and all stolen livestock is returned to their rightful owners. The efforts aim not only to recover stolen property but also to dismantle criminal networks that profit from livestock theft and disrupt livelihoods in rural communities.
This latest incident follows another major recovery just days earlier in Meru County, where police recovered 145 stolen cattle in Igembe Central and reunited them with their owners. The coordinated actions demonstrate a renewed focus by law enforcement to combat livestock-related crimes across the country.
Security agencies reiterated their commitment to protecting life and property, vowing to intensify patrols and collaborate with local communities to curb future raids. They urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity that could aid in ongoing investigations and livestock recovery operations.
Livestock theft remains a critical security and economic issue in various parts of Kenya, and authorities are working tirelessly to bring lasting solutions to affected communities.
