National Police Sends Alert to Residents of 4 Counties as Crackdown Begins

Inspector General Douglas Kanja has launched a major multi-agency operation aimed at curbing banditry and cattle rustling in parts of Meru, Isiolo, Samburu, and Laikipia counties.

The move comes after a series of violent incidents, which have seen lives lost, residents injured, and livestock stolen.

In a statement issued on March 21, 2026, NPS highlighted areas affected by banditry and cattle rustling.

These areas included Buuri East, Tigania East and West, Igembe North, Central, and Mutuati in Meru.

Other focus points for the operation are Mukogondo Forest in Laikipia, Lantana and Sereolipi in Samburu East, and Kipsing and Ngaremara in Isiolo, along with surrounding regions.

According to the statement, the operation involves a large deployment of security personnel supported by robust air assets.

Its key objectives are recovering stolen cattle, mopping up illegal firearms and ammunition, arresting criminals and their financiers, and restoring peace in the affected communities.

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Community Cooperation Urged

“Residents in the targeted areas are urged to offer their maximum co-operation to security personnel, share intelligence, and ensure that banditry and related forms of criminality are brought to an end.” The statement read.

“Any person with information that may assist this operation is requested to report to the nearest police station or law enforcement officer, or to share it via our toll-free numbers: 999, 911, 112, or anonymously via our #FichuaKwaDCI on 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp 0709 570 000.” The statement added.

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IG Kanja Reaffirms Commitment

Inspector General Douglas Kanja emphasized that the National Police Service remains committed to eradicating criminal activities while ensuring public safety and security.

The crackdown marks one of the most significant coordinated efforts by the security agencies to tackle banditry and livestock theft, issues that have long plagued northern and eastern counties.

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Senior officers and graduands gather for a group photo at the National Police Leadership Academy. PHOTO/ NPS