In a devastating incident that has shaken the residents of Mutuati in Igembe North, five individuals, including two national police reservists have been confirmed dead following a brutal attack carried out by bandits.
The lawless assailants, suspected to have originated from Samburu County, infiltrated Njaruine village, plundering more than 100 cattle.
Confirming the incident, County Commissioner Fred Ndunga has expressed his condolences and revealed that the police are actively pursuing the bandits.
“Our officers are pursuing the bandits, and we will provide more details as the operation progresses,” he assured the public.
The assault began on Monday night when a horde of over 70 morans launched an onslaught on the village, resulting in the tragic loss of one life. On Tuesday morning, the bandits struck again, claiming three more innocent lives.
Responding swiftly to the dire situation, law enforcement agencies from Meru, Isiolo, and Samburu were mobilized to track down the perpetrators. Spearheading the operation is Igembe North police commander Joseph Chesire, leading a joint effort by the dedicated officers.
In a telephone interview with Nation Africa, area Member of Parliament Julius Taitumu shared details of his conversation with Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome, who promised swift action in response to the incident.
“The IG and Interior CS Kithuri Kindiki have assured me that security will be beefed up. But this time round, we want action, and security agents should walk the talk,” Taitumu stressed, highlighting the community’s urgent need for tangible results.
Following the tragedy, numerous injured individuals were rushed to Mutuati Level Four Hospital, where medical personnel are attending to their wounds.
Distressed residents, gathering at the medical facility, have passionately appealed to the government for enhanced security measures in the area, urging a decisive crackdown on the marauding bandits.
“We have heard promises of improved security countless times, but regrettably, no substantive action has been taken. We demand more than mere rhetoric; we demand tangible action to safeguard our lives and property,” expressed Samson Kubai, a concerned resident who echoed the sentiments of many others.
The incident in Mutuati has ignited widespread apprehension and deepened existing concerns about the effectiveness of security measures in the region.
The loss of lives and the rampant theft of livestock not only instills fear among the local population but also hampers their economic stability and overall well-being.
With the joint efforts of law enforcement agencies underway, residents remain hopeful that justice will be served, and the perpetrators will be swiftly apprehended.
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