Recovered sheep and goats after a multi-agency security operation in Marsabit County/NPSA multi-agency security team has recovered 251 sheep and goats that were stolen by suspected bandits in Loiyangalani Sub-County.
The National Police Service (NPS) says the recovery followed an operation carried out after officers intensified pursuit of the suspects in the area.
According to the NPS, officers tracked the stolen livestock to Lokilipi and Sarima areas. On arrival, they encountered armed suspects, triggering a confrontation that involved an exchange of gunfire.
The suspects were forced to flee, abandoning the animals at the scene. Security teams then secured the livestock and brought the situation under control.
The 251 recovered animals have since been placed under police custody. The NPS says they will remain there pending identification, verification, and eventual handover to their rightful owners.
Authorities say the operation is part of ongoing efforts to curb livestock theft and banditry in affected regions.
The service described the operation as part of its continued crackdown on organised banditry. It said the recovery reflects its commitment to restoring security and protecting life and property in vulnerable areas where stock theft remains a concern.
In a related case earlier under Operation Maliza Uhalifu, multi-agency security teams also recovered 24 stolen livestock following a swift response to a reported incident in Ntangilia.
The National Police Service, in a statement shared on May 26, 2026, outlined how the operation unfolded after a distress report was received.
“Multi-agency security teams operating under Operation Maliza Uhalifu successfully recovered 24 stolen livestock yesterday, 25 May 2026, following a swift response to a banditry incident. A report of livestock stolen from the Ntangilia area was received, prompting the immediate deployment of a joint security team,” the statement said.
According to the service, officers established strategic ambushes along known escape routes used by suspects. The teams later intercepted the suspects in the Chumvi area, where a confrontation ensued.
“The team established strategic ambushes along known criminal escape routes. The suspects were intercepted in the Chumvi area. A fierce exchange of fire ensued, but the security team overpowered the bandits and recovered all the livestock, which were handed over to the owner at Gambela Centre after positive identification,” the statement added.
Both incidents highlight continued security operations targeting banditry and livestock theft. The National Police Service says coordinated efforts among agencies remain central to disrupting criminal networks and recovering stolen property across affected regions.
