Herders flee as raiders kill three and steal camels

By Lucas Ng’asike

Three herders have been shot dead in Lokori in Tukana East District.

More than 300 camels were also stolen when bandits suspected to have crossed from Baringo East District attacked pastoralists at Loriu in Kalapata location at the weekend.

The more than 100 heavily armed Pokot raiders descended on herders at a manyatta (traditional homestead).

They opened fire indiscriminately and killed the three, injured one herdsman, before they drove away the animals towards Baringo East District.

DC Elmi Shaffi said the Government was tracking down the raiders to recover the stolen animals.

Mr Shaffi said the attackers engaged the herdsmen in a heavy fire exchange for several hours and overpowered them before they escaped with the animals.

"We are liaising with our counterparts in Baringo East to pursue the raiders and recover the animals," said the DC. He said the herder who had been shot was admitted to Lokori Health Centre for treatment.

Tension remained high in Lokori, Suguta, Kalapata and Lokilipi following the attack.

More than 500 pastoralists have fled Loriu and Kalapata with their families in fear of more raids.

They accused the Government of laxity in containing cattle rustling.

 

Read all about: herdsmen camels cattle cattle rustlers bandits

 

 

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