Murkomen announces change of tact to tackle cattle theft in Nyamira
By Kiprono Keileb, September 19, 2025Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has pledged to take tough measures to combat persistent cases of cattle theft along the border between Nyamira County and Bomet and Kericho, stating that the crime requires new approaches to bring lasting solutions.
“Stock theft along the Nyamira County border with Bomet and Kericho counties is a long-standing problem that requires new strategies to eradicate,” Murkomen said in a statement posted on his official Facebook account on Friday, September 19, 2025, following the Jukwaa la Usalama forum held in Nyamira
The CS noted that security teams have been putting in notable efforts to curb the crime but stressed that more decisive steps were on the way. “Our security agencies are doing a commendable job in recovering stolen animals and preventing theft,” he stated.
As part of his directive, Murkomen said security officers would strengthen intelligence gathering and target the entire cattle theft chain, including those aiding the crime.
“The security agencies will also carry out an intelligence-led operation to profile and prosecute cattle thieves, buyers of stolen animals, butchers and those who collude with them,” he explained.
He further revealed that the Inspector General of Police had committed to bolstering security presence in the region to enhance operations.
“On top of that, the IG has assured me that he will increase the number of personnel in the Memisi ASTU Camp, which has been dealing with the problem and provide them with additional vehicles as soon as the leasing arrangement is concluded,” Murkomen said.
The CS emphasised that such reinforcements, combined with intelligence-driven investigations, would ensure that those behind the theft networks are brought to book. His message comes at a time when livestock theft has repeatedly strained relations among communities living along county borders, making it a persistent security concern.
By assuring residents of enhanced deployment and logistical support, Murkomen maintained that the government was determined to restore peace of mind to livestock farmers who depend heavily on cattle for their livelihoods.