Two siblings, aged seven and seventeen, were tragically shot dead by armed bandits in Naibor, Laikipia County, in a fresh wave of attacks that has heightened fear and tension in the area. The siblings were grazing their family’s livestock when gunmen ambushed them and opened fire at close range before fleeing. According to police officers who visited the scene, a knife was found a few meters from where the bodies lay, suggesting a possible struggle before the brutal killings.
The attackers fled without stealing anything, raising questions about their motive. Residents have been left in shock as security forces continue to pursue the suspects while working to prevent retaliatory attacks. Authorities have since increased patrols and deployed additional National Police Reservists (NPRs) and officers to restore calm in the region.
The Naibor area, along with several others across northern Kenya, falls under Operation Maliza Uhalifu, a government-led initiative aimed at eliminating banditry and restoring peace. The multi-agency security operation covers Laikipia, Baringo, West Pokot, Turkana, Samburu, Marsabit, Meru, Isiolo, and Migori counties. Despite notable progress in reducing crime, isolated attacks continue to challenge efforts to stabilize the region.
Beyond security operations, the government is also implementing long-term strategies focused on community empowerment, economic revival, and deradicalisation programs. Authorities report that over 600 illegal firearms have been surrendered in recent months following amnesty campaigns and awareness drives in Elgeyo Marakwet and Baringo counties.
Interior officials emphasized that sustainable peace will only be achieved by addressing the root causes of banditry, including poverty, unemployment, and underdevelopment. Plans are underway to distribute subsidised agricultural inputs and offer extension services to encourage locals to embrace farming as an alternative source of income.
In addition, all National Police Reservists are set to undergo fresh vetting to strengthen accountability and improve coordination. Under new policy directives, NPR officers will operate under the direct supervision of the Officer Commanding Police Station (OCS) to streamline operations and enhance effectiveness in combating banditry.
Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to dismantling criminal networks fueling livestock theft and insecurity, pledging sustained efforts to secure affected communities and promote long-term stability in Laikipia and neighboring regions.
