Ward rep on police radar for 'arming bandits with guns'

G3 riffles that was recovered from criminals in Mumias in 2016. Police say the MCA could be supplying the cattle rustlers with a similar make. [File, Standard]

Police officers are investigating a ward rep suspected of trading in illegal guns. 

Samburu police commander Karanja Muiruri said the ward rep from Samburu North was among people suspected to be arming cattle rustlers.

“There is intelligence information that an elected ward rep might be sympathising with bandits, who he has been supplying with guns," said Mr Muiruri.

Muiruri said investigations indicated that the politician had secretly been meeting bandits to plan cattle raids and attacks.

According to the officer, the ward representative had been vocal in opposing police operations to flush out bandits from Suguta Valley, where they are reported to plan attacks and hide stolen livestock.

Early this month a group of armed bandits was forced out of the valley following floods. But according to Muiruri, the bandits have since moved back to the valley.

The investigations on the ward rep came as police on patrol arrested a 24-year-old suspected bandit last weekend at Serolipi in Samburu East sub-county, with a G3 gun and 21 bullets.

The suspect, who is being held at Archers police station, had wrapped the gun in a sack and hidden it in a bush.

Police said an operation to disarm illegal fire arm holders that commenced last week would continue.