One police reservist lost his life while four officers sustained injuries during a violent confrontation between security personnel and suspected armed bandits in the Mlango area of Burat Ward, Isiolo County.
Security reports indicate the incident took place during a joint operation focused on combating livestock theft in the area.
Personnel from the National Police Reserve and other security agencies were conducting patrols under Operation Dumisha Amani when they encountered individuals suspected of stealing livestock.
A shootout erupted as the alleged offenders resisted apprehension, resulting in casualties among the reservists.
Authorities confirmed the death of one officer and serious injuries to four others during the confrontation.
Injured personnel were transported to a nearby medical facility for treatment.
Police reports identified the deceased officer as Augustino Ekale, who sustained a head wound during the firefight and died immediately.
The body was subsequently transferred to a mortuary where a postmortem examination will be conducted to establish the exact cause of death.
During the operation, security personnel successfully recovered some of the stolen livestock.
However, officials noted that some animals remain unaccounted for, and attempts to locate both the remaining livestock and the escaped suspects continue.
County Police Commander Isaac Sang stated that additional security forces had been deployed to the affected areas to prevent further incidents and bolster the ongoing operation.
Later in the day, tensions escalated as officers escorted the recovered cattle to police premises in Isiolo town.
A crowd attempted to seize the animals, prompting officers to fire warning shots to disperse them and restore order.