Police recover 49 heads of stolen cattle and 7 goats in Meru
By Kiprono Keileb, April 29, 2026The National Police Service (NPS) have reported a successful livestock recovery operation in Meru County after responding to theft incidents that had affected local herders and triggered concern among residents.
In a statement shared on X on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, the NPS said the operation involved coordinated tracking efforts along suspected routes used by people linked to livestock theft moving animals across grazing fields and escape paths.
The police explained that the operation was carefully planned and executed through joint efforts, allowing officers to trace the movement of the livestock and recover them before they could be further dispersed or sold. The animals were later identified by their owners and returned safely following verification.
“Officers from the National Police Service have successfully recovered forty-nine head of cattle and seven goats that were stolen in the area,” the statement reads.
NPS further explained that the officers who followed escape routes and monitored grazing areas believed to be used by livestock thieves to move stolen animals across different locations.
“The team conducted coordinated operations along suspected escape routes and grazing areas, leading to the successful recovery of all the stolen livestock. The recovered animals were positively identified and handed over to their rightful owners,” the statement reads.
The National Police Service also confirmed that investigations are still ongoing as officers intensify efforts to identify and arrest those responsible for the theft. Security teams have since increased patrols and surveillance in the region to prevent similar incidents and improve response times to livestock-related crimes.
“Efforts to apprehend the suspects are ongoing, with enhanced patrols and surveillance mounted across the area,” the statement reads.
“The National Police Service remains committed to safeguarding lives and property. Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or via emergency numbers.”