NAIROBI, Sept 26 (NNN-KBC) — Kenyan President William Ruto issued a stern warning against individuals carrying out banditry activities in the country that their days are numbered.
Speaking on Sunday, a day after 11 Kenyans, the majority of whom were security officers, were ambushed and killed by suspected bandits in Turkana East, the President announced that the state will go after each and everyone involved.
“I have instructed security agencies to deal firmly, decisively, and conclusively with those involved.” He said in a strongly-worded statement.
The head of state told the nation that he had received a comprehensive report on what transpired Saturday leading to the loss of innocent lives and declared that it will not be business as usual both for perpetrators and masterminds of bandit attacks anywhere in Kenya.
“Cattle rustling will stop na sio tafadhali,” President Ruto declared, indicating an all-out onslaught against anyone involved in the criminal activity
Saturday’s raid happened while the President was out of the country.
The National Police Service described the incident as a “criminal and cowardly ambush by cattle rustling bandits” on police officers and members of the public.
“A local chief, two members of the public and eight police officers succumbed to the injuries,” the National Police Service said in a statement after the ambush.
According to NPS, the officers were in hot pursuit of bandits who had raided a village in Turkana East and made away with livestock.
As a response to the attack, the government confirmed that it immediately dispatched additional officers “to reinforce the troops on the ground” in beefing up security in the area and in the pursuit of the attackers.
NPS further sought to reassure the public that “all necessary measures shall be taken to restore security and safety in the region.” — NNN-KBC
