Several houses burnt, property stolen amid operation in Laikipia

Laikipia County residents have accused police of torching at least 40 homes in an ongoing operation, leaving several people injured.

A contingent from the Kenya Police Reservists, Kenya Defence Forces and Rapid Deployment Unit is said to have raided a village in the dead of night and driven away an unknown number of cattle.

Lochaliapeta Nang'arwa, 70, is nursing serious burns after his house was set ablaze while he slept. His son Silvanus Kakurko said Mr Nang'arwa was rescued by well-wishers.

"My father was deep asleep when a group of security officers raided the village and burnt several houses. He was not able to escape because of his age," said Mr Karurko.

He said his father was taken to Olmoran Hospital and later transferred to Churo Amaya Dispensary for security reasons.

STEALING PROPERTY

Laikipia West Sub-County Deputy Assistant Commissioner Benedict Munywoki said he was not aware of the raid.

"I am not aware of burning of houses and stealing of property. So far, nobody has lodged a complaint at my office," said Mr Munywoki.

Tiaty MP Asman Kamama is among leaders who have faulted the operation on grounds that it is aimed at punishing "innocent locals".

Hundreds of residents had fled their homes because of the operation, Mr Kamama told The Standard in a telephone interview.

"Police should pursue criminals, not innocent locals. It is unfortunate that people are being harmed in the ongoing operation."

He said some residents had fled to Tagulbey, Serosion and Kaptuya, adding that the security officers were destroying and stealing property instead of restoring sanity.

He said at least 200 families had been displaced.