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Emotions ran high during the burial of three children killed by bandits in Kerio Valley with fears armed bandits were now targeting schools.

The incident has paralysed learning in more than 20 schools in the region as learners fled with their parents fearing for their lives.

Elgeyo-Marakwet County Knut branch secretary John Cheberi yesterday threatened that teachers would not report back to their workstations until they are assured of their safety.

“We note with concern that young, innocent children are now becoming a target of the brutal bandits. What have children got to do with cattle rustling?” said Cheberi.

“Banditry attacks have continued to threaten education in this region and we will not have any option but close schools for the safety of our learners and teachers,” said the Knut official.

During last week’s incident, the three Tot Primary School pupils were shot dead while playing outside their classroom.

The death brought to 170 killed in the past nine months in the sprawling valley, sparking fears in the region.