CS Interior Murkomen Holds Security Summit as Cattle Rustling Surges in Northern Meru

Kipchumba Murkomen convened a high-level security meeting this morning at the Mbataru RDU Camp in Tigania East Sub-County, Meru County, following a recent surge in cattle rustling in the Northern Grazing Zone of the county.

Addressing the issue, CS Murkomen highlighted that the proliferation of small arms from neighboring counties has long fueled insecurity, including banditry and livestock theft, in pastoralist regions such as Elgeyo-Marakwet, Baringo, West Pokot, Turkana, and Isiolo. He noted that while recent security operations have restored relative peace in these areas, criminals are now shifting focus to previously peaceful counties, including Meru.

“The ongoing security operations have yielded significant results, but the criminals are now targeting relatively peaceful counties. We must act swiftly to protect our communities and livestock,” CS Murkomen said.

To address the situation, the Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, has deployed 400 additional officers to reinforce security in the affected areas. CS Murkomen also announced plans to commence a comprehensive operation to mop up illegal firearms in Samburu, Laikipia, Isiolo, and Meru counties, intensify efforts to recover stolen livestock, and reorganize the National Police Reservists (NPRs) in Meru and Isiolo to better safeguard livestock.

The security summit brought together senior officials, including Eastern Regional Commissioner Paul Rotich, Regional Police Commander Charles Birgen, Regional AP Commander Michael Owino, Meru County Commissioner Jacob Ouma, and Isiolo County Commissioner David Kiprop.

Also in attendance were Governors Isaac Mutuma and Abdi Hassan Guyo, Members of Parliament Mpuru Aburi, Julius Taitumu, Daniel Karitho, Dr. John Mutunga, and Mumina Bonaya, along with several MCAs and local leaders.

CS Murkomen emphasized that the county governments, national security agencies, and community leaders must work together to ensure peace, security, and protection of livelihoods in the affected regions. He urged residents to cooperate with security personnel and report suspicious activities that could jeopardize the safety of communities and livestock.

“The security of our pastoralist communities and their livestock is a top priority. We will continue to implement robust measures to neutralize criminal networks and recover stolen animals,” CS Murkomen said, reaffirming the government’s commitment to curbing cattle rustling and ensuring lasting stability in Northern Kenya.

The operation is expected to cover multiple counties in the Northern Corridor, with continuous monitoring and engagement with local leaders to reinforce community policing and enhance the effectiveness of the security response.