DP William Ruto
has warned leaders against using children to perpetuate banditry saying innocent Kenyans must not be dragged into the violence.
"Leaders using children to fight while their own are in school are a disgrace," the
Deputy President
said via Twitter on Wednesday.
Ruto said the
government will deal accordingly with attackers who stole livestock in
Baringo North after he issued a shoot-to-kill order.
"Bandits who have stolen livestock, killed and displaced thousands of women and children, with 8,000 out of school, must be dealt with decisively," he added.
Armed Pokot bandits launched a
in Baringo North subcounty on Tuesday driving more than 300 animals away.
A chief was also killed by suspected Pokot bandits during the DP's visit in Bartabwa.
Thomas Ruttok
was among officials providing security during Ruto's visit. He
died during a shootout between the bandits and security officials.
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Ruto issued a shoot-to-kill order against the bandits who also killed 10 people, injured two and displaced more than 30,000 residents.
But his order was
by Nasa leaders and other politicians in Rift Valley.
Wiper's Kalonzo Musyoka and Ford Kenya’s Moses Wetang’ula said the order was unconstitutional and could be misused by security forces.
Kanu politicians, led by chair Gideon Moi, urged Ruto not to issue careless orders and instead deal with security matters according to the law.
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Last week, the DP told residents that Jubilee shall take responsibility for the insecurity and
unveiled an additional 240 police reservists.
An additional 255 police reservists were deployed in the Kerio Valley to step up the war against bandits wreaking havoc in the area.
at Chesongoch, Marakwet East on Monday, assuring residents they will restore calm.