NAIROBI, March 21 (Xinhua) -- The National Police Service in Kenya said on Saturday that a multi-agency security operation has been launched across parts of the northern region to tackle banditry and recover illegal firearms following an increase in cattle rustling.
National Police Service spokesman Michael Muchiri Nyaga said the multi-agency deployment will help restore stability following violent attacks in parts of Meru County, Isiolo County, Samburu County and Laikipia County.
"Cattle have been stolen, lives have been lost, and injuries have been reported. This is totally unacceptable and must be eradicated," Nyaga said in a statement.
He said the multi-agency team has been mandated to recover stolen cattle, mop up illegal firearms and ammunition, and arrest those behind the attacks, including suspected financiers of banditry networks.
The operation, which will focus on suspected hotspots, involves a large contingent of security personnel supported by aerial surveillance and air support to track criminal groups operating in the region.
Nyaga called on residents in the affected areas to cooperate fully with security forces and share information that could help bring the perpetrators to justice.
He said the police remain committed to eliminating all forms of criminality while ensuring the safety of residents in the affected counties.
Clashes between rival cattle-herding pastoralists in the region are common in Kenya's northern region, with herders often carrying guns to protect their animals, but the recent fighting has been unusually intense. ■
