Leaders demand stronger security at Sondu border over cattle rustling

Leaders from Kisumu and Kericho have urged for enhanced security along the Sondu border to curb cattle rustling, warning that persistent livestock theft could jeopardize community peace. During a women’s empowerment event in Nyakach subcounty on August 14, 2026, Nyakach parliamentary aspirant Jonathan Okoth Opande highlighted cattle theft as a major concern for residents, urging the government to bolster its security presence in Sondu.

Opande expressed the need for secure border control to eliminate cattle theft prevalent in Nyakach. Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot reiterated the necessity of robust government intervention, warning rustlers that their activities would not be tolerated. He proposed the formation of an Anti-Stock Theft Unit in Sondu to tackle livestock theft and enhance border security.

Cheruiyot cautioned against retaliatory attacks and emphasized the government’s commitment to apprehending rustlers. Both leaders stressed the importance of peaceful coexistence, encouraging residents to engage in trade and intermarriage for community cohesion. They stressed that addressing cattle theft should be integral to broader conflict prevention efforts ahead of the 2027 General Election.