'Sio tafadhali,' Ruto issues stern warning after Turkana bandit attack

The early morning attack saw suspected Pokot cattle rustlers hit a village in Namariat near Kakitetei, killing eight police officers, a local chief and two civilians.

​​Through a social media post on Sunday, the Head of State addressed the attack and said that his administration will not condone cattle rustling.

Dr. Ruto noted that he had directed security forces to deal thoroughly with those involved in the gruesome attack.

“After receiving a comprehensive report on the Turkana/pokot incident that led to 10 security/administration officers losing their lives, I have instructed  security agencies to deal firmly, decisively and conclusively with those involved,” tweeted Ruto.

“Cattle rustling will stop na sio tafadhali,” he added.

National Police Service spokesperson Bruno Shioso on Saturday said the slain officers were pursuing bandits believed to be from the Pokot community, who had earlier raided a village and stolen livestock.

“The officers were in hot pursuit of Pokot bandits who had  raided a village in Turkana East and made away with livestock. A local chief, two (2) members of the public and eight (8) police officers succumbed to the injuries,” Shioso said in a statement.

Additional police officers have meanwhile been dispatched to reinforce the troops on the ground as they pursue the bandits who are still at large.

“NPS reassures the public that all necessary measures shall be taken to restore security and safety in the region,” the police spokesperson added, condemning the incident as a cowardly attack.