CS Kithure Kindiki has given a report on the progress the Ministry of Interior has made in the fight to end banditry in the North Rift region.
While appearing before the Senate Committee on National Cohesion at Baringo County Hall Mini Chambers, on Wednesday, March 1, the Interior CS reported how insecurity had paralyzed learning activities in the area.
Moreover, CS Kindiki explained how one bandit turned one of the schools in the area into his home after terror broke out.
“One of the schools was taken over by bandits and the classrooms became the home of the bandits. Class Eight became the bedroom of the head of the family, Class Seven became the bedroom of the first wife, Class Six became the bedroom of the second wife and Class Five became the bedroom of the firstborn,” the CS told the committee.
He further noted that as at now, the government has reopened 14 out of the 21 schools that had been closed due to banditry attacks.
“We will do whatever it takes to defeat terror and ensure all the schools are reopened. So far, we have reopened a total of 14 schools, and this is not just a media story, I know the schools,” CS Kindiki added.
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The CS also reported that some schools were completely vandalized and burned down by the bandits.
However, the CS stated that the Ministry of Interior is working with the Ministry of Education to construct new learning centers.
Nonetheless, the North Rift region has suffered immense loss ranging from the loss of lives, displacement of residents, and loss of thousands of livestock due to cattle rustling and banditry.
The counties that are most affected by banditry and cattle rustling include Baringo, Samburu, Turkana and Elgeyo Marakwet.
CS Kindiki was directed by the head of state to move to the North Rift to restore security in the region.