(MENAFN) At least seven people, including National Police Service reservists, were killed on Saturday in coordinated cattle-rustling attacks across multiple villages in Kenya’s upper eastern region, authorities said.

The attacks took place in the Meru–Isiolo border area, about 270 kilometers northeast of Nairobi, where communities often share grazing land. Armed raiders reportedly struck several settlements almost simultaneously, killing civilians and reservists who attempted to defend their communities, Meru County Commissioner Jacob Ouma told reporters.

More than 600 livestock were stolen, and several residents were injured. Charles Kamwibua, Meru County Peace and Herders Chairman, noted that two victims were killed while trying to recover stolen cattle during the early morning raids.

Police and local security teams have been deployed to pursue the attackers, with reinforcements sent to protect vulnerable villages. Officials indicated that the raids were likely well-planned by armed groups familiar with the area.

Cattle rustling has long been a problem in northern and upper eastern Kenya, fueled by competition for pasture and water, and complicated by cross-border criminal networks. The Meru–Isiolo corridor has experienced repeated cycles of livestock theft and revenge attacks, prompting periodic security operations.

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