Sheep that were stolen from the Kenyatta family-owned Northlands farm in Ruiru, Kiambu County, have started being returned. Police sources report that so far, 18 sheep have been returned, with some being dropped off near the farm by individuals, some of whom are believed to be aides of two Nairobi politicians. Five sheep were found abandoned at Dandora police station and were identified by special marks on the animals before they were returned to the farm. The farm’s security manager, Patrick Masinde, confirmed the return of the animals and expressed hope that all those holding their stock would return them peacefully.
The raid on the farm occurred on the same day that the opposition Azimio coalition held countrywide protests, demanding that the government reduce the cost of living and stop the selection of electoral commissioners. The raid, which followed public incitement by some Kenya Kwanza politicians, was carried out by hired hooligans who were armed with power saws, axes, and machetes. The raiders overwhelmed the farm’s private guards and proceeded to cut down trees, steal sheep, and demarcate the land to allocate themselves plots. They also torched part of the 51,000-acre farm.
Area police did not respond to numerous distress calls from the security managers, and only showed up 24 hours later to assess the damage. A bi-partisan parliamentary committee has been formed to discuss the way forward on the demands made by Azimio, while the mass action has been called off.
On April 3, elderly women who claimed to have been Mau fighters cursed the raiders, advising those who took away the sheep to return them voluntarily and seek cleansing to ward off the curse. On April 10, elders from the Kikuyu Council of Elders threatened to curse all those who disrespect the Kenyatta family. Mr. Masinde believes that the publication of photos in the press showing some of the raiders carrying or herding away the sheep from the farm may have prompted the return of the animals.
The Ruiru sub-county police commander, Alexander Shikondi, was asked about the status of investigations into the invasion, destruction, and theft at Northlands. He stated that a multiagency team was dealing with the matter, and once they submit their reports, they will act accordingly.
