Police Recover 145 Cows, 5 Donkeys After Bandit Attack in Tigania East

Some of the recovered cows/ X: NPS

Police officers have recovered stolen livestock in Tigania East, Meru County, following a raid in which armed bandits were overpowered after a gun battle.

In a statement on Wednesday, the National Police Service (NPS) said the operation was launched after a report of stock theft in Kiambogo area on August 19, 2025.

A combined patrol team from the Rapid Deployment Unit (RDU), Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU), National Police Reservists (NPR), the Special Operations Group (SOG) and the Kenya Police Service (KPS) was immediately dispatched to pursue the suspects.

“The team encountered the bandits at Arow Dam, Gambela location, where a fierce exchange of fire ensued. The bandits were overpowered, abandoned the stolen animals, and fled,” NPS said.

A total of 145 cows and five donkeys were recovered during the operation and later handed back to their rightful owners.

The police said operations to track down the fleeing suspects are still ongoing, with additional teams deployed to secure the area.

“The National Police Service commends the police officers for their commitment and the public for providing information that led to the successful recovery of the stolen animals,” the statement added.

NPS have reaffirmed that the crackdown against banditry will continue until peace and stability are fully restored in the region.