Elite Forces Deployed to Combat Livestock Theft in Meru

Meru, Kenya – November 6, 2023

In a bid to combat the ongoing menace of livestock theft, Kenya’s Interior Cabinet Secretary, Kithure Kindiki, made a significant announcement on Monday. The government has taken the proactive measure of deploying elite General Service Unit (GSU) special forces to the troubled Meru North region. During his visit to the area, Kindiki outlined the reasons behind this crucial deployment.

The Interior CS cited the repeated incidents of livestock theft as the primary motivation behind the government’s action. In his address to the local community, he explained that these criminals were not just common thieves but armed and dangerous individuals, necessitating the use of elite forces to address the issue effectively.

To further bolster the security presence in the region, Kindiki disclosed that the government had also increased the number of Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) camps. This move is aimed at enhancing the authorities’ ability to respond to and prevent livestock theft more efficiently.

“We commend security officers who have diligently and courageously faced the armed criminals and recovered a substantial amount of the stolen livestock,” Kindiki stated during his tour, acknowledging the efforts of the security personnel in the region.

In addition to the deployment of GSU special forces and the reinforcement of ASTU camps, Kindiki revealed another significant development. A total of 140 National Police Reservists (NPR) commenced their training on Monday. These reservists will play a crucial role in supporting the disciplined forces in maintaining law and order in the region.

During his visit to Meru North, Kindiki issued a stern warning to local politicians. He stressed the importance of depoliticizing security operations and made it clear that anyone, regardless of their political affiliation or influence, who incites, finances, or plans banditry and livestock rustling will face apprehension and prosecution.

The decision to deploy elite forces and strengthen security measures in Meru North follows a high-level meeting between Kindiki and top security officers from the region. The attendees included members of the Eastern Regional Security and Intelligence Committee, Meru County and Mutuati Sub-county Security and Intelligence teams, as well as local commanders of ASTU, GSU, and other security formations.

This latest deployment echoes Kindiki’s commitment to addressing livestock theft, which he made back in May 2023 when he declared the entire Meru North region a security zone. He pledged to apply the same dedication, vigor, and commitment that had been successful in countering bandits and armed criminals in North Rift to neutralize the perpetrators and masterminds of livestock theft in Meru North.

As the government takes these bold steps to ensure the safety and security of the region’s residents, it is hoped that the deployment of elite forces and the increased presence of security personnel will contribute to curbing livestock theft and restoring peace to Meru North. The cooperation of the community, as well as the resolute efforts of law enforcement agencies, will be essential in achieving this goal.