Seven zones in Laikipia County have been gazetted as dangerous and police operation in the areas intensified.
A Gazette notice signed by Interior Cabinet Secretary Joseph Nkaissery names Rumuruti, Ol Moran, Kirimon, Marmanet, Mukogodo East, Segera, Mithiga and Matuiku as areas where police operations will continue for a month.
The CS said the areas were declared disturbed and dangerous following consultations with the National Security Council.
The notice points out that security operations could be extended beyond the one month period after assessment of situation on the ground.
Speaking to Nation, Laikipia County Commissioner Onesmas Kyatha said police have instructions to deal firmly with armed herders.
“Areas declared dangerous will witness an increased number of security forces on the ground to deal with the armed pastoralists,” he said.
ARMED HERDERS
Mr Kyatha said operations to kick out the herders began in Ol Maisor and Sosian ranches.
In the recent past, Laikipia County has witnessed a state of lawlessness leading to deaths, injuries and destruction of private properties.
Migrating herders who are armed with sophisticated weapons have been blamed for causing unrest in the county which is a popular tourist destination.
They have also been blamed for the murder of Sosian co-owner Tristan Voorspuy who was shot dead on March 5.
Police have arrested one suspect and are hunting down for his two accomplices in connection to the murder.
©Alleastafrica and Daily Nation
