A multi-agency security operation in Meru County resulted in the recovery of 46 stolen cattle and the death of two suspected bandits following a fierce shootout in Tigania East Sub-County.
Police said the incident occurred on March 20, 2026, at around 11:00 a.m., after a stock theft case was reported at Kandebene Patrol Base under Muthara Police Station. Acting on the report, security teams launched a pursuit of the suspected cattle rustlers and intercepted them at Madoadoa area.
Police said a fierce exchange of fire ensued during the confrontation, forcing the suspects to flee.
In the process, the assailants abandoned 46 head of cattle, which were immediately secured by the officers.
During the operation, the bodies of two men were found at the scene with fatal gunshot wounds.
The bodies were moved to a local morgue pending formal identification and postmortem examination.
The recovered livestock were escorted to Matabithi GSU Camp for safe custody before being handed over to their rightful owner.
Security personnel have since intensified operations in the area, combing nearby locations in pursuit of the remaining suspects, with authorities expressing confidence that more arrests and possible recoveries will be made.
The incident underscores ongoing security challenges linked to cattle rustling in parts of Meru and neighboring regions, even as security agencies ramp up efforts to curb the vice.
Meanwhile, 20-year-old man died after being swept away by a swollen river in Makueni County.
Police said the incident was reported on March 20, 2026, by Kalamba Location Chief Harrison Mutuku.
The deceased, identified as Daniel Mutunga, a resident of Ulilinzi Village in Kibwezi Sub-County, is said to have drowned on the night of March 19, 2026, while attempting to cross the swollen River Kyewa.
Police officers, alongside detectives from Nzaui Sub-County, visited the scene and established that the young man was heading to Kalaani, where he operates a business, from Matiliku Market when he was swept away by the fast-flowing waters.
His body was later discovered along the riverbank a few metres from where he is believed to have drowned. It had visible bruises on both legs and the forehead.
The scene was processed by investigators before the body was moved to Kilome Nursing Home in Emali, where it is awaiting postmortem examination.
Authorities have cautioned residents against attempting to cross flooded rivers, especially during the ongoing rainy season, due to the heightened risk of drowning incidents.
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