Gov’t Launches Security Operation In Baringo Amidst Bandit Attacks

BARINGO,Kenya, Feb, 4 – The government has resolved to launch a full scale security operation in Mochongoi area of Baringo county following weeks of violent attacks perpetrated by suspected bandits.

As part of the directive announced by Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i, the deployment of a multi-agency security team consisting of ground and air surveillance units will also see the immediate recruitment of National Police Reservists in affected area as part of efforts to complement operations.

Also, an Anti Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) will be deployed to Chesogon in West Pokot County while five police platoons expected to beef up security between the borders of Elgeyo Marakwet and West Pokot counties will also be deployed.

Invaders in the affected areas of Baringo South will also be evicted with Matiang’i saying no one will be spared.

“The deployment will be ruthless and we will employ maximum available power including aerial operations. This is the only way we can address the menace that has become worse daily and we urge for cooperation,” Said Matiang’i.

While making the annoucements during a meeting with security and political leaders in Nakuru, the security minister said that Leaders spewing seeds of discord and inciting residents to violence will be arrested and prosecuted in court.

A section of leaders have been implicated in sourcing and distributing guns and ammunitions to suspected bandits in the affected areas.

“The rest of these people will be extended to cultural leaders administering oaths to ‘bless’ bandits and other invasion missions,” he said.

Meanwhile the government will seek to strike a consensus with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to facilitate the registration of new voters in the affected areas even as government has pledged to support funeral expenses of this killed in the region.