One killed as raiders invade Turkana village, livestock stolen

Residents of Sirata, Marigat district in Baringo County receive part of the more than 2,000 goats and sheep recovered from cattle rustlers in 2014. In Turkana, raiders have escaped with unknown number of sheep and goats. (Photo: Kipsang Joseph/Standard)

One person has been killed after raiders suspected to be from West Pokot County attacked Kainuk area in the neighbouring Turkana County.  

Turkana Acting County Commander Joel Kirui said that the raiders attacked the area Sunday morning.

“Today at around 9am, raiders attacked and raided Karenyang village in Kainuk location. One Turkana male adult aged about 70yrs namely Lopeyok Tarta, who is a herder, was shot dead. The raiders made away with unknown number of goats and sheep,” said Kirui.

He added that the security team that comprised regular police, Anti Stock Theft Unit (ASTU), Administrative Police, and National Police Reservists responded immediately and a shoot-out ensued.

“The fights are still ongoing. Gun shots can still be heard renting the air. One person was shot. He was rushed to the dispensary where he was declared dead,” said Lemukol Ng'asike, a local.   

Kirui said the body of the deceased was taken to Kapenguria hospital mortuary awaiting postmortem.

This comes just a few days after members of the two communities came together led by their leaders to celebrate peace that has been experienced in the area for the past two years.