Moi hits out at state over late response to Baringo bandit attacks

Baringo residents displaced by armed Pokot bandits in a camp at Tuiyotich, Mochongoi on February 8, 2017. /JOSEPH KANGOGO
Baringo residents displaced by armed Pokot bandits in a camp at Tuiyotich, Mochongoi on February 8, 2017. /JOSEPH KANGOGO

Senator Gideon Moi has criticised the government's 'late response' towards containing bandit attacks in Baringo.

The state had gazetted 19 areas in the county as disturbed and dangerous, paving way for police operation to weed out bandits.

In a notice issued on February 28, Interior CS Joseph Nkaissery said the order shall remain in force for the next 30 days.

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"As leaders, we have made our pleas and feelings known. The government has come in too late...I wish they could do this early enough," he said.

Speaking at a teacher's retreat in Embu on Thursday, Moi said the money set aside for compensating the affected is not enough.

"Sh100 million for compensation is not enough. Property and lives have been lost. If the government is not serious, the situation could turn into a genocide," he said.

Moi said the state should deal with the situation and make sure Kenyans do not turn against each other as the country heads to the polls.

He further joined DP William Ruto's calls for leaders to stop condoning the attacks that have left 10 dead and displaced over 30,000.

On Monday, the DP warned leaders against using children to perpetuate banditry. This was after he ordered security officers to shoot bandits on sight.

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.

Moi urged Ruto not to issue careless orders and instead deal with security matters according to the law.

He said criminals must be dealt with as the law prescribes.

"No one in his right mind can say they do not want law and order. We cannot protect criminals," Moi said.

Armed Pokot bandits launched a in Baringo North sub-county on Tuesday, driving away more than 300 animals.

A chief was also killed by suspected Pokot bandits during the DP's visit in Bartabwa.

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Last week, the DP, when he unveiled an additional 240 police reservists, told Baringo residents that Jubilee shall take responsibility for the insecurity.

More police reservists were deployed in the Kerio Valley to step up the war against the brazen bandits.

at Chesongoch, Marakwet East on Monday, assuring residents they will restore calm.

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