The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has condemned the recent shooting of livestock by multi-agency security teams during the ongoing Operation Maliza Uhalifu in the North Rift region, in Silale, Baringo County.

According to a statement released by the commission on Monday, February 9, 2025, more than 70 cattle, 10 camels, and 50 goats were killed during a disarmament exercise conducted by officers from the Special Operations Group (SOG) in Tiaty Constituency.

The commission noted that the affected communities are largely pastoralists who depend heavily on livestock for their livelihoods, warning that such losses have severe socio-economic consequences, particularly in a region already grappling with drought and food insecurity.

“The Commission has documented reports of the killing of livestock in the Silale area, where more than 70 cattle, 10 camels, and 50 goats were allegedly killed on 26 January 2026 by the Special Operations Group (SOG), which is currently conducting disarmament operations in Tiaty Constituency, Baringo County,” KNCHR stated

The commission acknowledged the government’s ongoing efforts to recover illegal firearms and restore stability in the North Rift but expressed concern over what it described as a deteriorating security situation within the Turkwel Belt, including Takaywa, Kainuk, Ompolion, and Kakong.

“The Commission recognises that the affected communities are predominantly pastoralist and depend almost entirely on livestock for their livelihoods. Consequently, the loss, theft, or killing of livestock has devastating socio-economic consequences, which are further exacerbated by the adverse effects of climate change currently affecting large parts of the North Rift region,” they added.

The commission stated that recurring banditry and cattle rustling have led to the displacement of communities, loss of life, and disruption of access to essential services.

Intimidation by officers

During its situational assessment mission to Baringo County, the commission reported allegations of excessive use of force by officers involved in the disarmament operations.

The commission also cited claims of destruction of property in Riongo, Naudo, and Silale; closure of marketplaces and water points in several areas; and displacement of residents in Silale, Riongo, and Nginyang.

The commission further observed that some residents had not filed formal complaints with authorities due to fears of reprisals.

The commission called on security agencies to ensure that all ongoing operations comply with constitutional, legal, and international human rights standards.

The commission urged officers to respect the rights to property, freedom, and personal security, cautioning that security operations should not be used as a licence to inflict punishment or cause further suffering to vulnerable communities.

The commission also appealed to national and regional security leaders to address the root causes of banditry, including tackling the sponsors of criminal activities and sealing loopholes that allow the circulation of illegal firearms and ammunition.

Urge to local communities

The commission further encouraged local communities to cooperate with government disarmament initiatives by surrendering illegal weapons and strengthening community policing through timely reporting of attacks.

Additionally, the commission recommended the adoption of a human rights-based approach to security operations, enhanced oversight by institutions such as KNCHR and IPOA to ensure transparency and accountability, and consideration of compensation for civilians whose livestock and property were destroyed during the operations.

The commission maintained that efforts to restore peace and stability in the North Rift must go hand in hand with the protection of human dignity, livelihoods, and the fundamental rights of affected communities.