CS Kindiki vows to eradicate livestock rustling in Isiolo, Marsabit and Meru Counties

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has vowed to eliminate the scourge of livestock rustling across Meru, Isiolo, and Marsabit counties, as part of a sweeping government push against organised banditry. Speaking during a tour of the Mulango Anti‑Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) camp in Isiolo, Kindiki announced that modern security equipment — soon to be deployed by air, land, and ‘even sea’ — will strengthen existing efforts to dismantle criminal networks that profit from cattle raids. Citizen Digital
Kindiki described livestock theft in this region not as a cultural practice but as purely organised crime, citing syndicates that buy stolen animals, supply firearms, plan invasions, and traffic weapons. Citizen Digital He pledged to dismantle that criminal infrastructure through a scaled-up operation similar to those conducted in Kenya’s North Rift region. People Daily+1 To do this, selected hotspots in the three counties will be officially gazetted as Disturbed and Dangerous zones — a move designed to allow for tighter security measures without penalising innocent residents. Citizen Digital Kindiki also announced the deployment of newly trained National Police Reservists (NPRs) once their training concludes. Citizen Digital
On the accountability front, the CS warned that any local administration officials — including chiefs and assistants — found harboring rustlers or shielding stolen livestock will be dismissed. Citizen Digital Moreover, he signaled a shift in how security personnel will be rewarded: officers who courageously reclaim stolen stock will receive promotions and state honours, while those colluding with criminals will be fired, not simply transferred. Citizen Digital+1
Looking ahead, Kindiki said this marks the beginning, not the end, of the government’s commitment. He wants daily operational updates and a sustained crackdown, warning that the first batch of modern gear is just a warm-up. Citizen Digital By shoring up security, cutting off escape routes and financial channels, and rooting out complicit local officials, he believes the country can finally turn the tide on cattle rustling in these long‑suffering regions.