Police recover stolen livestock after armed attack in Laikipia County
By Faith Lagat, November 1, 2025Police in Laikipia County have recovered stolen livestock following a violent attack by armed bandits.
The National Police Service (NPS) detailed the operation in a statement on Saturday, November 1, 2025, highlighting the swift and coordinated response that led to the recovery. The incident underscores the ongoing challenges of livestock theft in the region and the importance of rapid security interventions.
“Yesterday, 31st October 2025, police in Laikipia successfully recovered stolen livestock during a coordinated security operation,” read the NPS statement in part.
Attack on herding family
The recovery followed a report from a resident in Matwiku Sub-Location, whose son was ambushed while herding livestock in the Mlima Jangili area around 11:00 a.m.
“The recovery came after a report by a resident of Matwiku Sub-Location, who stated that at around 1100 hours, his son was attacked by armed bandits while herding livestock in the Mlima Jangili area. The assailants made off with 30 sheep and goats and 7 cows.”
Armed bandits made off with 30 sheep and goats and seven cows. The alert prompted an immediate response from law enforcement agencies, initiating a multi-agency operation aimed at tracking the stolen animals and apprehending the culprits.
Multi-agency response secures livestock
Upon receiving the report, a combined security team launched a pursuit that led to the interception of the livestock at Laikipia Nature Conservancy.
The NPS confirmed that all 30 sheep and goats and seven cows were successfully recovered during the operation. While the bandits managed to escape into nearby thickets, security teams continue to pursue the suspects, reflecting ongoing efforts to bring them to justice.
“Upon receiving the report, a multi-agency security team assembled and swiftly launched a pursuit. The team successfully intercepted the stolen animals at the Laikipia Nature Conservancy, overwhelming the bandits. All the livestock—30 sheep and goats and 7 cows—were recovered.”
Strengthened security measures
The NPS emphasised the importance of coordinated patrols and proactive security measures to prevent similar incidents. “The swift response and coordination among the security teams led to the successful recovery of the stolen livestock,” the service stated.