Govt seizes 4,000 heads of cattle belonging to illegal herders

The government has seized a total of 4,000 heads of cattle which had invaded private farms in Laikipia Central Sub County on Monday, area County Commissioner Joseph Kanyiri has said.

Speaking to Kenya News Argency at his Nanyuki town office on Tuesday, he said it is believed the cattle had been moved from the counties of Samburu, Isiolo and Baringo.

“We have seen cows being ferried with Lorries at night and left with Morans to graze them. Some (Morans) with rungus and illegal firearms here in Laikipia. We will not accept that,’’ Kanyiri warned, adding the illegal herders had cut private fences and drove in the cows to the farms.

He called on herders to seek permission before grazing into people’s farms aimed at averting conflicts.

“Some herders, when asked why they are grazing into people’s farms without their approval, attack them with rungus. It is illegal and unacceptable,’’ said Kanyiri.

He further said authorities are in pursuit of the culprits, and at the same time noting they would drive the livestock to their respective areas in order to restore peace in the region.

The CC noted, the herders will not have to worry about pasture and water since long rain had resumed in their respective places that had caused them to migrate.

He called on community elders to have a dialogue aimed at avoiding future pasture conflicts.

The cattle were held at Makutano police station in Laikipia central and on Tuesday moved to Rumuruti police station.