Police launch a Manhunt for the suspected Baragoi Bandits who launched an attack on Samburu County Assembly Speaker Steve Lenamarle
by Mercy Chete
On May 2, 2026, security forces in Samburu County launched a coordinated manhunt following a violent ambush at the Barsaloi-Baragoi junction. The attack targeted the vehicle of Samburu County Assembly Speaker Steve Lenamarle, resulting in multiple injuries and sparking renewed concerns over the security situation in the region.The IncidentThe ambush occurred as the Speaker’s vehicle was navigating the Maralal-Baragoi road. According to initial police reports:
The Ambush: Suspected bandits positioned themselves at the junction and opened fire on the vehicle as it slowed down to maneuver.
Victims: Five occupants were injured in the hail of bullets. Notably, the casualties included a minor, which has added a layer of public outcry to the incident.
Casualties:The injured were rushed to nearby medical facilities, with some reportedly in critical condition due to gunshot wounds. Speaker Lenamarle was not physically harmed in the attack, though his vehicle was heavily damaged.The Security ResponseIn the immediate aftermath, the National Police Service (NPS) and specialized units deployed to the area:
Manhunt: A joint operation involving the General Service Unit (GSU) and the Rapid Deployment Unit (RDU) was initiated to track the attackers, who are believed to have retreated into the rugged terrain of the Suguta Valley.
Road Safety: Security patrols have been intensified along the Maralal–Baragoi highway to protect commuters, as this specific junction has historically been a “black spot” for banditry and livestock raiding ambushes.
Official Statements: Local leaders and security officials have condemned the attack, describing it as a brazen attempt to intimidate public officials and disrupt the peace in Samburu North. Context of InsecurityThis attack follows a pattern of heightened tension in Samburu County. Recent months have seen:
1. Surge in Ambushes: Armed groups have frequently targeted public transport and government vehicles along the Baragoi axis. 2. Resource Conflict: Security experts often link these flare-ups to retaliatory cattle raids or disputes over grazing lands, though the targeting of a high-ranking official like the Speaker suggests a potentially more provocative motive.The police have urged residents to remain calm and provide any information that might lead to the apprehension of the suspects, emphasizing that the “Operation Maliza Uhalifu” (End Crime) initiative remains active in the Northern Rift region.
