By Betty Luke
Isiolo County Commissioner Geoffrey Omoding has put a section of local leaders on notice for allegedly defending criminals involved in attacks that have in the recent past left many people dead and hundreds of animals stolen in Mlango area, Burat ward.
A tough-talking Mr Omoding said some leaders were sympathizing with the criminals showing they could be linked to the attacks.
“It is unfortunate when a leader defends a criminal arrested in connection to murder and robbery while pretending to defend the community. We will not allow that and we shall treat criminals individually and no community will be targeted because of a few wrongdoers,” Mr Omoding said.
He said the government was investigating claims of some politicians funding the attacks that has led to senseless killings by criminals ostensibly from neighbouring Samburu County.
More than 15 people have been killed in the volatile area within the last four months.
“We are conducting investigations and once we have gathered sufficient evidence, we will arrest those funding banditry attacks,” he maintained.
Two people were earlier this week arrested after they were found in possession of camels stolen in an attack that left nine people dead at Harr Moroti and Murulem areas in April last year.
The two were arrested at their homes in Kipsing, Oldonyiro ward and 78 camels recovered during the operation.
According to the administrator, the security operation would be sustained to ensure all the animals stolen in the past are recovered and those involved in the crime arrested.
Mr Omoding maintained that the government was keen to ensure an end to the insecurity crisis in the area and appealed to residents to volunteer information that could aid the security team in making arrests.
