Two Rift Valley Chiefs Killed Amid Rising Banditry in Kenya

Two chiefs in Kenya’s Rift Valley were killed within 48 hours amid escalating violence linked to banditry. The first death occurred during a police operation targeting livestock thieves, while the second involved a daylight assault at a former chief’s home. Security forces are intensifying measures to combat rising banditry and regain stability in the region.

In a disturbing turn of events, two chiefs in Kenya’s Rift Valley region were fatally shot in separate incidents over a mere 48-hour time frame, raising alarms regarding the deteriorating security climate. The first incident involved Victor Sebei, an assistant chief from Kong’asis Sub-Location in Baringo County, who was killed during a confrontation between security forces and armed bandits. This clash, which took place in Chepilat, ensued while police were pursuing bandits responsible for livestock theft from Ng’aratuko village the previous night.

According to Baringo County Police Commander Julius Kiragu, it remains unclear how Mr. Sebei arrived at the scene of the shootout, as he was not involved in the operation. The attack follows a series of violent episodes in the region, including the murder of another individual in Ng’aratuko just a week prior. To date, the area has seen at least ten fatalities linked to bandit attacks, mostly fueled by livestock theft and escalating inter-community tensions.

In the second incident, former chief Parara Lekiyierie of Pura Sub-Location was also shot dead by assailants during a daylight attack at his home. The Samburu Central Deputy County Commissioner Titus Omanyi confirmed the event and lamented the loss of Lekiyierie, recalling his efforts as a peace mediator within the community. Security forces have commenced a search for the criminals believed to have fled to nearby caves following the attack.

The rise in violent occurrences in Samburu County is alarming, with recent reports detailing multiple fatalities during cattle raids and ambushes on vehicles. This escalated violence has prompted government action, including a 24-hour ultimatum to locals to surrender illegal firearms, as warned by Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat. He announced the deployment of a multi-agency task force aimed at subduing the bandits troubling the area.

Authorities are currently profiling illegal firearm holders in Samburu County in preparation for disarmament efforts. This region has been significantly affected by armed conflicts arising from livestock predation, land competition, and longstanding ethnic rivalries. Citizens have expressed their frustration, pleading with the government for effective measures to quell the violence, with one resident stating a collective weariness of living in fear due to ongoing attacks.

The alarming increase in violence resulting in the deaths of two chiefs in Rift Valley within 48 hours highlights a critical security crisis in Kenya. The situation reflects a broader pattern of relentless banditry, livestock theft, and community conflict in Samburu and Baringo counties. As the government initiates disarmament and a multi-agency response to these threats, public calls for action underscore the urgency needed to restore peace and security in the affected areas.

Original Source: ntvkenya.co.ke