BARAGOI, Kenya (WTVR) – Officials are calling it the most deadly attack on the police in Kenya’s history.
At least 42 officers were killed when cattle rustlers ambushed police, officials say the attackers used sophisticated weapons such as anti-personnel bombs and rocket-propelled grenades.
The officers were attacked in Baragoi in the northern Samburu County as they attempted to recover stolen cattle.
Kenya’s military has been ordered by President Mwai Kibaki to deploy to the north-western Samburu region following the deadly ambush.
Many villagers are afraid they’ll be caught up in further revenge attacks, while Internal Security Minister Katoo ole Metito is vowing to bring those responsible to justice.
The officers were attacked in Baragoi in the northern Samburu County as they attempted to recover stolen cattle.
A security source reports that because so many other police officers are currently in critical condition that the final death toll could be even higher.
A police spokesman says three of the attackers had been killed, while nine injured officers remain in the hospital.
The local Samburu and Turkana communities often steal cattle from each other, and clash over grazing rights and access to water points.
A similar attack, in which 12 people were killed, took place nearby two weeks ago, Kenyan media report.
