Police recover 10 stolen cattle in Elgeyo Marakwet

Stolen cows that were recovered in Elgeyo Marakwet county, June 10, 2025. /NPS

Officers from the National Police Service on Tuesday conducted an intelligence-led operation resulting in the successful recovery of 10 cows that had been stolen from Kowow sub-location, Endo location, in Elgeyo Marakwet county.

The recovered livestock were located in Tigit Village, Masol location, Pokot Central subcounty.

Following the operation, the animals were formally handed back to their rightful owners in the presence of the Chief of Kowow sublocation.

The National Police Service reiterated its commitment to addressing cattle rustling and related crimes through enhanced intelligence gathering, timely operational response, and continued collaboration with local communities and security agencies.

In recent weeks, security forces across Kenya have intensified operations targeting livestock theft, leading to several successful recoveries.

In Narok county, police recovered 11 stolen cattle following a nighttime operation in Ang’ata Barikoi.

The recovery occurred near the Miti Mingi Bridge after officers engaged suspected rustlers who opened fire.

The livestock were later returned to their owner, and authorities have since boosted patrols in the area to deter future incidents.

In Laikipia East, a coordinated security team intercepted and reclaimed seven cows near Ol-Kinyei Dam.

The livestock had been driven away by rustlers who fled upon confrontation.

The animals were formally handed over at Kiwanja Ndege Shopping Centre, with the National Police Service reaffirming its commitment to intelligence-led responses and collaboration with local communities.

Elsewhere, a large-scale operation in Marsabit county resulted in the recovery of 1,140 goats and sheep stolen during intercommunal unrest in North Horr.

The stolen animals were returned, with several suspects identified and three arrests made.

Multi-agency efforts, including humanitarian support, have since restored stability as displaced families began returning home.

Government statistics show a decline in livestock theft, from over 8,500 animals reported stolen in early 2024 to under 5,000 in early 2025.

Despite this progress, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has stressed the need to shift from reactive enforcement to long-term strategies addressing root causes, including economic vulnerability and local conflict triggers.