Three National Police Reservists (NPR) were killed following an ambush by armed bandits at Madi Qarsa village in Merti, Isiolo County. The attack comes just two days after another incident in neighboring Meru County, where three more NPR officers lost their lives in a similar confrontation.
According to local authorities, the officers were on routine patrol when they came under heavy attack from bandits believed to be operating along the Isiolo–Meru border. The incident has heightened security concerns in the region, which has recently experienced a spike in cross-border raids and retaliatory clashes. County security teams have since launched a multi-agency operation in pursuit of the attackers, while residents have been urged to remain vigilant as investigations continue.
Tension Rising Along the Isiolo–Meru Border
Leaders from both counties condemned the attacks, calling for urgent reinforcement of security personnel and long-term strategies to curb banditry. They also emphasized the need for better equipment and support for NPR officers, who often operate in high-risk environments with limited resources. Local communities expressed frustration at the recurring violence, urging the government to take stronger action to protect civilians and security officers serving in volatile areas.
Government Response
Security agencies have vowed to intensify operations across the region, noting that the recent attacks appear to be part of a coordinated wave of bandit activity. The Interior Ministry has also promised to review deployment and surveillance strategies to ensure that officers and residents are better protected.
Calls for Long-Term Solutions
Community elders, local leaders, and peace organizations are urging authorities to complement security operations with long-term measures such as:
- Strengthening cross-county intelligence sharing
- Investing in community peace dialogues
- Improving access to resources to reduce conflict triggers
- Enhancing NPR training and support
As the affected families mourn the loss of their loved ones, Kenyans continue to call for sustained government action to restore peace and stability along the Isiolo–Meru border.
