Raiders shoot herder, steal animals in Tigania

A herder was shot during a raid at Mula Village in Tigania East in which 325 animals were stolen. He is recovering at a hospital in Meru.

Speaking to the Nation, Meru North Peace Committee chairman Charles Kamwibua said the raiders struck around 6pm on Tuesday.

The incident comes a day after another herder, Mr Mwenda M’Muguongo, was shot dead, seven kilometres from where a farmer was buried after being killed a week ago.

Meru and Isiolo county commissioners were set to preside over a peace meeting at Gambela.

“Raiders are attacking Meru herders almost every day. On Wednesday, they killed one man and were repulsed by police after a heavy gunfight. On Thursday, residents were attacked and animals stolen. We are asking police to help us recover the animals,” said Mr Kamwibua.

Mr Julius Thiauri, a herder, said he was shot on both legs and hid in the bush.

“The raiders came as we were preparing to milk our cows. I don’t know the whereabouts of my two friends who scampered for safety during the shooting,” said Mr Thiauri.

Mr Mike Mutembei, a resident, who rescued the injured herder, complained that the incident was reported in time but police have not found the anumals.

Meru North herders chairman John Nturutimi said police officers responded slowly to the distress call.

“Two people had been killed before this attack. We want the police to save lives and protect our property,” he said.

Recently, Njuri Ncheke elders in Tigania East said residents have lost 2,260 cattle worth Sh113 million, 795 goats valued at Sh3.9 million and 25 donkeys worth Sh250,000 in the last three years.

They said more than 10 people have been killed by armed raiders in the same period.

Chairman Thinkii Mucheke said land speculation related to the Lamu Port Southern Sudan – Ethiopia Transport corridor has increased conflicts in the area.