Gunmen kill one, injure three passengers after attempted livestock raid in Turkana

Gunmen attacked a group of herders near Kainuk Game Reserve in Turkana County, killing one and injuring three others on September 11, 2026. The attackers, suspected bandits, attempted to steal livestock from grazing fields. Multi-agency security personnel responded to the raid, forcing the bandits to flee into the reserve's thickets.

Subsequently, the bandits opened fire on vehicles traveling along the Lodwar–Kitale highway, injuring three individuals in two separate cars. One passenger suffered a gunshot wound to the right buttock, while another in the same vehicle was shot in the stomach, with the bullet exiting through his back. A third victim was injured when a Ford Ranger was shot at from the side, suffering a gunshot wound to the right leg.

All injured victims were taken to Kainuk Health Centre for initial treatment before being evacuated to Lodwar Referral Hospital for further care. The body of Poisho Loritareng, the deceased herder, was transferred to Kapenguria Hospital mortuary. In response to the incidents, police have increased security patrols along the highway to deter further attacks and protect the public.

The region has seen a rise in cattle rustling and related violence, causing widespread destruction and fatalities. Operation Maliza Uhalifu has been implemented across Baringo, West Pokot, Turkana, Samburu, Marsabit, Meru, and Isiolo counties to combat banditry, focusing on retributive justice, strategic investments, and sustainable development.