Security officers have recovered 54 camels that were stolen by bandits at the Mlango grazing area in Isiolo County yesterday night.
The police, in hot pursuit of the rustlers, engaged the suspects in a two-hour exchange of fire and managed to recover the animals at Lekuk in Laikipia North Sub-County this morning.
Confirming the incident, Isiolo Deputy County Commissioner Mr. Patrick Musango commended the effort of the police and the local National Police Reservists (NPRs) that bore fruit but called on the area residents to divulge information that could help in arresting the crime suspects.
Mr. Musango said that the security officers are still on the ground tracking down the suspects but warned that NPRs who are working from town instead of staying in the areas where their service is required would be suspended.
The DCC claimed that some NPRs who are supposed to ensure grazing areas and watering points are safe for the herders are seen loitering in towns, giving the criminals room to steal animals from innocent residents.
He added that 19 goats that were stolen from the Mutuati area of Meru County three months ago have been recovered at the Ngaremara location in Isiolo County and handed back to their owners.
Mr. Musango said that two suspects are also being held at the Isiolo Police Station, waiting to be taken to court.
He said frequent police patrols had been intensified and appealed to chiefs and the NPRs to collaborate with commanders so as to eradicate common crimes like rustling in the area.
By Abduba Mamo
