The National Police Service (NPS) has recovered 956 goats, 10 cattle and three donkeys following two separate banditry raids in Isiolo and Meru counties, as security agencies intensify Operation Maliza Uhalifu.
The recoveries were made on Monday, October 26, 2026, after officers from the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU), working alongside multi-agency security partners, responded to raids in Gotu, Isiolo County, and Maili Tano, along the Meru–Isiolo border.
In the first incident, suspected bandits raided Gotu, prompting officers from ASTU Gotu and their multi-agency partners to respond to the scene.
The NPS said the officers acted promptly and recovered 256 stolen goats. The operation was followed by an intensified pursuit of the suspects as security teams continued efforts to trace the remaining livestock.
In a separate incident, officers from ASTU Kisima and multi-agency security partners responded to another banditry raid at Maili Tano, along the Meru–Isiolo border.
Supported by aerial surveillance, the security team launched a pursuit of the suspected bandits and intercepted them at the Dam area.
According to the police service, an intense exchange of fire followed before the joint security team recovered all 700 goats, 10 cattle and three donkeys.
The two operations resulted in the recovery of 969 animals, comprising 956 goats, 10 cattle and three donkeys, according to the NPS.
The service reiterated its commitment to combating banditry, saying Operation Maliza Uhalifu would continue to intensify across all affected regions to dismantle criminal networks involved in the attacks.
The latest operations form part of broader security efforts targeting banditry and livestock theft in areas affected by recurring raids, which threaten the safety and livelihoods of pastoralist communities.
The NPS also acknowledged the collaboration and support of its multi-agency security partners in the operations, urging members of the public to continue providing timely information on banditry and other criminal activities.
Residents can report incidents at the nearest police station, camp or post, or through the emergency numbers 999 and 911. Information can also be shared through the Directorate of Criminal Investigations' toll-free line, 0800 722 203, under the hashtag #FichuaKwaDCI, or via WhatsApp on 0709 570 000.
The police service said public cooperation remains important in supporting security operations and efforts to address criminal activity in affected regions.
