Fears are high that renewed tension could grip the Narok-Kuria border after suspected rustlers stole ten cows from Kilibwet village in Angata Barikoi, Transmara South sub-county.
According to Andrew Maritim, a resident, armed rustlers believed to be from the neighbouring Kuria Sub-County raided his homestead and made away with the livestock under the cover of darkness.
He said the incident has reignited fear among locals, despite recent peace efforts between the two communities.
“Villagers and security officers responded swiftly that night in an attempt to track down the cattle rustlers. But the question remains—when will this cycle of theft and violence come to an end?” Maritim wondered.
The attack comes just weeks after a major inter-regional peace meeting was held, bringing together Rift Valley Regional Commissioner Dr. Abdi Hassan and his Nyanza counterpart, Ms. Florence Mworoa.
The meeting sought to address the root causes of cross-border hostilities and explore long-term peace solutions.
Speaking to the Kenya News Agency, Transmara South Sub-County Police Commander Bashir Ali confirmed the incident, noting that security teams acted promptly upon receiving the report.
“Our security apparatus confirmed the incident in Angata Barikoi where ten heads of cattle were stolen from one family,” said Bashir.
“A combined team from ASTU, GSU, and Angata Police Post responded immediately and made a frantic effort to pursue the culprits. Unfortunately, heavy rains in the area hampered the operation,” he said.
Bashir further stated that follow-up operations are ongoing, with officers from the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) taking the lead in efforts to recover the stolen cattle.
He assured residents that security remained a top priority and that no retaliatory attacks or fresh clashes have been reported and would be tolerated.
“To prevent any possible skirmishes, we have enhanced collaboration with local community policing groups from both sides. Through ongoing security meetings, including one held just a few weeks ago led by the regional commissioners, we are working closely with community leaders to maintain calm,” he added.
This latest incident resembles one that occurred a few weeks ago in Transmara West, where eight people were injured—one critically—during renewed clashes over alleged cattle theft near the Narok-Kisii county border.
