3 killed as armed bandits launch dawn cattle rustling raid in Kenya

Three people were killed in a dawn cattle rustling attack in Tuum, Samburu North, Kenya, area police commander Samwel Gichohi confirmed. The victims included two local herders and one suspected bandit who died during the raid.

Armed attackers launched the raid in the early morning hours in an attempt to drive away livestock. Gichohi said the attack was repulsed, with police troops deployed to the area as security agencies moved to contain the situation. "The three victims died on the spot," the police boss said, adding that tension remained high.

Tuum and other parts of Samburu North have previously experienced insecurity linked to cattle rustling, a persistent challenge that has threatened lives, disrupted livelihoods and heightened tensions among pastoralist communities.

The fresh bandit activities have raised fears that animosity could derail the healing process after a peaceful coexistence that lasted close to four years.