NYANDARUA, Kenya – Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has pledged to wipe out livestock theft in Nyandarua County, following mounting concerns from farmers over escalating losses.
Speaking at the County Commissioner’s office during a grassroots security engagement, Murkomen said a multi-agency team had already arrested and arraigned several suspects, with more operations underway. He warned that perpetrators would face the full force of the law.
“Cases of livestock theft have significantly reduced, owing to joint efforts by security officers and wananchi who have taken our advice seriously,” Murkomen said.
The CS noted that the crime had evolved from the theft of animals to slaughtering them on-site at night and selling the meat in butcheries, often with collusion from traders.
He acknowledged the frustrations of farmers, citing the recent burning of Ndunyu Njeru Police Station in Kinangop after three suspects accused of cattle theft died in custody.
However, he cautioned locals against taking justice into their own hands.
“No one should take the law into their own hands. Suspects must go through the courts because interrogations help expose the depth and networks of these criminal activities,” Murkomen stressed.
Hotspot areas identified include Kinangop, Ol Kalou, and Ndaragua, where intensified operations have led to numerous arrests and prosecutions.
Murkomen also addressed recent reports of stolen National Identification Cards, assuring residents that replacements were underway.
He warned against identity theft, saying those found misusing stolen documents would be prosecuted.
The government, he said, remains committed to restoring public confidence in law enforcement while protecting farmers from crippling losses.
