State asked to form cattle rustling department

West Pokot leaders want the Interior ministry to create a special department to deal with cattle rustling.

Led by Senator John Lonyangapuo, the leaders said this is the only way to amicably bring an end to this menace and challenged the incoming cabinet secretary, Major retired Joseph Nkaissery, to re-strategise on new ways to beat cattle rustling.

Speaking at his Kapenguria office, the senator said previous operations have led to loss of lives and property, adding that it would have been in order for Mr Nkaissery to first publicly clear his name so as to put people at ease.

"We expect him to use a reasonable strategy to curb cattle rustling unlike in 1984 when excessive force was used in the name of flushing out bandits and illegal weapons," he said.

Pokot South MP David Pkosing said they are aware of the atrocities committed by the military in the region but asked Kenyans to give Nkaissery a chance to work.