Recovery of stolen livestock in Meru

In a bold, intelligence-led operation, officers from Kathare Police Station, together with National Police Reservists from Buuri East and Isiolo, recovered a trove of livestock stolen during a daring raid in Meru County. According to the National Police Service (NPS), the team clashed with suspected rustlers in a fierce exchange of gunfire before subduing them and safely escorting the animals back to Kathare. The stock was then returned to their rightful owners, but authorities say the suspects remain at large and a manhunt is underway. National Police Service+1
The breakthrough comes amid increasing pressure on the NPS to curb stock theft in the region. The NPS credits its success to timely information from local intelligence sources, as well as the seamless coordination between reservists and regular officers. National Police Service+1 According to reports, the operation was pulled off swiftly after a tip-off, and the rustlers were intercepted before they could move the stolen livestock. The Star+1 The recovered animals were taken to Kathare Police Station, where they were positively identified and returned to relieved community members. National Police Service
Public reaction has been largely positive, with residents praising the NPS’s quick response and urging more sustained efforts. The NPS has reiterated its call on the public to continue sharing timely intelligence by dialing toll-free numbers — 999, 911, 112 — or using the #FichuaKwaDCI hotline (0800 722 203) as well as WhatsApp (0709 570 000). National Police Service Community leaders have said that such recoveries are vital, because livestock forms the backbone of many households’ livelihoods in Meru. Some also point to larger, organized banditry networks, calling for long-term strategies to dismantle them. The Star+1
Looking ahead, the NPS has pledged to sustain and scale up its operations against livestock theft in Meru and neighbouring counties. Local commanders say ongoing efforts will include more intelligence gathering, joint patrols, and community-based interventions, all part of a broader push to reclaim economic stability for pastoralists. Should the public maintain its cooperation, the police hope such recoveries will become more routine and less reactive — a cornerstone in restoring trust and security in rustling-prone areas.