300 Armed Bandits Ambush Police Officers in Turkana County: A Concern for Security in Northern Kenya
On Friday, February 10th, at approximately 11:50 pm, a group of approximately 300 armed bandits ambushed police officers from Kainuk and Lokichar police stations who were on routine patrol along the Kitale-Lodwar road.
According to a police report, the initial group of 200 attackers engaged the security officers in a firefight, causing the officers to concentrate on neutralizing the threat. Unfortunately, another group of about 100 armed bandits attacked from behind, leaving the security officers surrounded from all directions.
The exchange of fire lasted for approximately two hours before the bandits fled the scene, leaving casualties behind. Three police land cruisers were also damaged during the incident. Turkana County Police Commander, Samuel Ndanyi, confirmed that the region experienced two attacks on the same day, and the security situation in the region remains a concern.
Recently, the Kenyan government has taken measures to secure the region, such as the formation of a squad to monitor and pursue bandits in all affected areas, particularly in Northern Kenya.
The government is investing in community-based intelligence, drone surveillance technology, modern personal protection equipment for security personnel, and the application of land and air assets to neutralize bandits and rustlers.
In a statement made by CS Kithure Kindiki, the government’s efforts in ensuring the safety of the citizens and the security personnel are commendable. The CS also stated that the government is investing in the latest technology and equipment to tackle the problem of banditry and rustling in the region.
In a recent development, CS Kindiki was a victim of an attack by bandits, with shots fired just a few meters away from where he was holding a meeting. The attacks in the region serve as a reminder of the need for increased security measures and the continued need to tackle the problem of banditry and rustling.
In conclusion, the ambush of security officers in Turkana County highlights the ongoing security challenges in the region. Despite the government’s efforts in ensuring the safety of the citizens, the threat of banditry and rustling remains prevalent.
It is imperative that the government and the security forces continue to work together to find a solution to this persistent problem.
