At least four people, including a National Police Reservist (NPR), were killed in a pre-dawn attack in Loosuk, Samburu County, as security agencies launched a manhunt for the attackers.
Samburu County Police Commander John Mwai said heavily armed gunmen raided the area in the early hours of Saturday, opened fire and fled into nearby bushes.
Authorities said the identities of the victims are being withheld until their families are formally notified.
Police said security reinforcements have been deployed to Loosuk as officers intensify the search for the attackers. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
The attack came days after Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen led a series of security meetings in the area following reports of insecurity.
Murkomen made the remarks after receiving reports of insecurity in the area following his recent security and service delivery assessment tour.
Speaking during a meeting with elders, the Cabinet Secretary acknowledged that attacks often escalate when security agencies mount operations against criminal gangs but maintained that the government would sustain the crackdown.
“I want to assure you that this is the beginning of the end. It is always darkest before dawn. I want to promise you that we will end this menace through sustained intelligence-led operations. We will continue these operations until the job is done,” Murkomen said.
He also urged community elders to continue mentoring young people and working with parents to discourage criminal activities and promote peaceful coexistence.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja was among those present during the meeting.
Police said the area is among those under a security operation aimed at tackling banditry. They said the operation has led to a reduction in such attacks in recent days.
