Suspected stolen donkeys intercepted while being loaded into a lorry in Al Emej Village, Bura East subcounty, October 4, 2025. /NPSSecurity officers in Bura East subcounty, Garissa County, have arrested six suspects and recovered six stolen donkeys following a swift operation conducted in the early hours of Saturday, October 4.
According to a statement from the National Police Service (NPS), the suspects were intercepted while loading the animals into a lorry in Al Emej Village.
“The donkeys were identified and handed back to their rightful owners,” the statement read.
The suspects are currently in custody, pending processing and arraignment in court.
The police service acknowledged the cooperation of residents and administration in the operation.
“The National Police Service commends the vigilance of its officers and the cooperation between the community and local administration, which led to the successful recovery and arrests,” the NPS added.
Police urged members of the public to continue sharing timely information to aid in the fight against livestock theft and other crimes.
Reports can be made by calling 999, 911, or 112, or through #FichuaKwaDCI via the toll-free number 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp 0709 570 000.
The operation comes amid increasing reports of livestock theft in arid and semi-arid counties, where donkeys play a central role in daily life as transport animals.
Security officers have in recent months stepped up efforts to curb the vice, with the police warning perpetrators of strict action.
In a separate incident in Nairobi, police officers from Muthangari police station arrested a suspect linked to mobile phone theft following a tip-off.
“Today, police officers from Muthangari police station, while on a foot patrol, received intelligence regarding a suspected mobile phone snatcher. They responded swiftly and proceeded to his house in Soko Mjinga, where they apprehended him,” the statement said.
A search was carried out at the suspect’s home, leading to the recovery of three mobile phones—an iPhone, an HDM, and a G73—all wrapped in foil paper.
The suspect was escorted to Muthangari police station, where he was placed in custody pending further processing and arraignment in court.
Reiterating its commitment to safety, the service assured Kenyans of ongoing vigilance to keep the capital city safe from both petty and hardcore criminals.
Recovery of the donkeys came just a week after police officers from Kathare police station, in collaboration with National Police Reservists from Buuri East and Isiolo, conducted an intelligence-led operation following the theft of livestock.
During the operation, the officers exchanged fire with the suspects, subdued them, and successfully recovered all the animals.
The livestock were later escorted to Kathare Police Station and returned to their rightful owners as police launched a manhunt for the suspects.
The National Police Service commended the swift action of the officers involved and reiterated its commitment to combating livestock theft and safeguarding livelihoods.
“The National Police Service remains steadfast in its commitment to serving and protecting the public,” the statement concluded.
