Kenya’s North Rift still in agony as bandits make operation seem child’s play

Deputy President William Ruto addresses 255 newly recruited police reservists at Chesongoch in Elgeyo Marakwet County. [PHOTOS: KEVIN TUNOI/STANDARD]

There is panic in the killing fields of Baringo, Laikipia and Marakwet, despite repeated assurances from the government that bandits will be decimated by the rapid response force deployed in the region a fortnight ago.

Gunfire from bandits has increased, families have fled their homes in droves, schools have been closed in Baringo and ranchers are a worried lot after one was shot dead last week in Laikipia.