Turkana, Kenya – Security agencies in Turkana have recovered 22 cattle and 18 goats following a violent attack on livestock traders near Sarmach Junction on Friday, July 25.
According to a statement from the National Police Service (NPS), a group of unidentified attackers armed with crude weapons and stones launched a brazen assault on a livestock market near the Turkwel River Bridge in Kainuk, sparking panic and chaos among traders.
“The assailants used stones and other crude weapons to violently disperse traders, forcing them to flee for their safety,” the police said.
RECOVERY OF STOLEN LIVESTOCK IN TURKANAOn 25 July 2025, a group of unidentified assailants violently attacked traders at a livestock market near Sarmach Junction, close to the Turkwel River Bridge in Kainuk, using crude weapons and stones. The attack forced the traders to flee
In response, a multi-agency patrol unit, comprising officers from several security formations, was dispatched to the area.
Their swift operation led to the recovery of the stolen animals, which were transported to the GSU Lami Nyeusi camp for identification.
The verification exercise was conducted in the presence of National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO), allowing owners to reclaim their livestock.
“The multi-agency team remains deployed in the area, continuing efforts to locate the remaining stolen livestock and apprehend the perpetrators,” NPS said.
Tackling Livestock Theft in the North Rift
Livestock theft remains a major security and socio-economic issue in Kenya’s arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs), including Turkana and the wider North Rift region.
The NPS said it is working closely with local leaders, elders, and other stakeholders to address resource-based conflicts and historical rivalries that often fuel such attacks.
While recent recovery operations have made strides, authorities acknowledge the challenge of apprehending rustlers due to rugged terrain, scarce resources, and community silence tied to complex clan loyalties.
The police are urging residents to report any suspicious activity and refrain from shielding criminals, warning that aiding or abetting livestock theft is a punishable offence.
“This crime not only threatens livelihoods but also undermines peace and stability in pastoralist communities,” police noted.
The recovered animals have since been returned to their rightful owners as the search continues for the remaining stolen livestock and the individuals behind the attack.
