Samburu Governor Jonathan Lelelit made an appearance at the Rift Valley regional headquarters of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Nakuru, responding to summons related to the escalating cases of banditry in the county. This marks his second summons in less than a month. Governor Lelelit expressed frustration, stating that security officials should be focusing on apprehending the real criminals responsible for the increasing violence in the region.

In a video statement, Governor Lelelit emphasized the urgency of addressing the ongoing security challenges, with frequent incidents of violence and loss of lives due to banditry. He lamented the fact that, instead of aiding the security forces in their efforts to combat criminals, he found himself summoned for questioning.

The Governor raised concerns about the prolonged investigation into his phone, which has been in the possession of detectives for over a month. He insisted that a week should suffice for the examination of his phone, describing the situation as a ‘circus.’

This recent development follows Governor Lelelit’s previous questioning on February 9, where he was one of seven individuals interviewed by Rift Valley DCI officers regarding the security situation in Samburu County. The ongoing insecurity in Samburu, plagued by banditry and violent crimes, has prompted Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki to lead operations in the area, acknowledging the need for sustained efforts to combat the menace.

Highlighting the severity of cattle rustling in Northern Kenya, Secretary Kindiki noted its organized criminal nature and the devastating impact on pastoral communities. The government has pledged additional resources in the fight against banditry, aiming to dismantle the infrastructure of cattle rustlers and those aiding and benefiting from such criminal activities. The focus remains on making banditry a costly venture, recovering stolen livestock, and rewarding individuals facilitating recoveries.