Two suspected bandits killed in botched robbery in Turkana

At least two suspected bandits were shot and killed in a botched robbery of donkeys at a village in Turkana county.

Police said a third suspect was arrested after he became frail while escaping  and walking barefooted hours after his accomplices had been killed.

He later told police they had come from Baragoi and were on a robbery mission when the incident happened.

The group had attacked Komote area and tried to drive off with 14 donkeys.

This prompted residents to raise alarm and alerted police who were on an operation in Laisamisi area.

On reaching Lentert area, they caught up with them and exchange of fire ensued leading to the killing of the two, Rift Valley police boss Tom Odero said.

Two AK47 rifles one with 11 and the other with 16 bullets were recovered from the slain suspects.

Police said all the donkeys were recovered and handed over to three owners.

Hours later, a man who was unable to walk due to blisters he had developed for walking barefooted was found few kilometers away and handed over to police.

Police say they have mounted operations in the area to tame bandits who are roaming in search of animals to steal.

Past attacks on villages in the area have turned fatal and led to revenge from local clans.

Whenever police intervene, they become casualties leading to deaths.

President William Ruto issued an order in September for security agencies to deal firmly, decisively and conclusively with those involved in the attacks and cattle rustling.

The Kerio Valley stretch has in the past 13 years left up to 70 police officers and dozens of residents dead. Several animals have also been stolen in the period.

Attempts by successive governments to rein in on the gangs in the volatile area have bore no fruit.

The most deadly attack was in 2009 where 40 officers were killed followed by the 2014 incident where 21 others were killed in similar ambushes.