A Turkana herder carrying a gun to shield his cattle from being stolen. Photo: the-star.co.ke
The conflict in Baringo escalated Tuesday after two women were shot dead and several others injured by armed Pokot bandits.
The victims were on their way to collect orphans’ cash at Equity Bank in Kabarnet town.
They were reportedly killed by stray bullets fired by Pokot bandits who raided Ilchamus warriors’ territory.
Baringo County commander Robinson Ndiwa said the victims had boarded an Administration Police truck from Mukutani division yesterday at 6am.
They got caught in a fierce gun battle in Mosuro, 20km away from Marigat town.
He said Pokots engaged in a battle with the Ilchamus warriors, hoping to recover their stolen livestock.
Ndiwa said the security operation will ensure all armed bandits across the Tugen, Pokot and Ilchamus communities are arrested.
Pokot bandits and Ilchamus warriors have continued to to attack each other in the Kerio Valley, despite the government sending huge troops of police and reservists to quell the violence.
Most schools remain closed in the area as residents fear for their lives.
Friday last week, the bandits raided Kaben and Kipyepo areas and made away with at least 30 cows.