Kenya Red Cross Society secretary general Abbas Gullet during a past press conference (courtesy)
The Kenya Red Cross Society has suspended all operations in Baringo County and withdrawn its staff effective Saturday 25th of February 2017.
The organisation has stated that it has taken the decision after harassment of its staff by local youths on Friday at Kambi Samaki.
In a statement sent to the press today, Kenya Red Cross society Secretary General Abbas Gullet said the suspension of the activities is due to the security concern of their staff, volunteers and resources.
"Our staff and volunteers were threatened by residents despite our assurance that the consignment was headed to Turkana County, and had nothing to do with the current inter-clan conflict in Baringo county,” he said.
On Friday, a convoy of seven KRCS vehicles carrying 96.8 metric tonnes of relief food comprising of maize flour, pulses, cooking oil and salt meant for Kapedo and Lomelo areas in Turkana County, was blocked by the residents and forced to turn back to Marigat.
Gullet said the KRCS staff attempted to negotiate with the residents, majority of whom were young people, but they were adamant forcing the convoy to return back after threats to burn down the trucks.
He firmly condemned the act reiterating that never in the history of Kenya Red Cross Society, have the staff been held hostage.
"We have always had access to all areas due to our neutrality and impartiality, during all crisis and emergencies,” added Gullet.
He however said that the society may only resume operations when the Baringo County government guarantees the safety of staff, volunteers and resources.