Rift Valley Chiefs Murdered as Security Situation Deteriorates

Two chiefs were killed in separate banditry incidents in Rift Valley, raising security concerns. Victor Sebei was shot during a police operation against livestock thieves, while Parara Lekiyierie was murdered by armed assailants at his home. This trend of violence is attributed to ongoing livestock theft and ethnic rivalries, prompting the government to intensify disarmament efforts.

In a concerning escalation of violence, two chiefs in Kenya’s Rift Valley region were killed within 48 hours, igniting fears over regional security. The first victim, Victor Sebei, an assistant chief in Tiaty East, was shot during a confrontation between security forces and armed bandits in Chepilat while pursuing stolen livestock. It remains uncertain how Mr. Sebei, who was not part of the operation, found himself at the scene, according to Baringo County Police Commander Julius Kiragu.

The incident follows a troubling pattern of violent banditry, which has claimed at least 10 lives this year alone in the region, driven by livestock theft and community rivalries. The second fatality involved Parara Lekiyierie, a former chief in Samburu Central, who was murdered in a daylight attack on his homestead. Local authorities characterized this as a blatant act of banditry, and officials mourned the loss of Mr. Lekiyierie, recognized for his commitment to peace in the community.

The violence has intensified in Samburu County, where past incidents have included multiple fatalities during cattle raids and ambushes involving armed bandits. The government has reacted by issuing a 24-hour ultimatum for the surrender of illegal firearms, with the Deputy Inspector General of Police warning of punitive action for non-compliance. Authorities are adopting a multi-agency approach to combat banditry, including profiling illegal gunholders ahead of a disarmament exercise.

Long-standing ethnic tensions and resource competition have perpetuated the cycle of violence in the region. Residents have voiced their frustrations, urging the government to take decisive action to end the relentless fear of violence that has overtaken their lives. Many are pleading for essential safety and security measures to protect innocent citizens from harm, a sentiment echoed by various local representatives.

The recent killings of two chiefs in the Rift Valley underscore the alarming rise in violent banditry and insecurity in the region. With community leaders targeted, the escalation of violence has prompted government intervention aimed at restoring security through disarmament initiatives. As the situation remains dire for residents grappling with fear and loss, collective efforts from authorities and community members are essential to address the root causes of this persistent crisis.

Original Source: ntvkenya.co.ke