Ten schools have been closed down in Marigat because of the increased insecurity in the area.

The government yesterday said more than 6,000 people have fled their homes and are taking refuge in churches and schools.

More than 10 people have been killed in retaliatory attacks between two communities in the area caused by cattle rustling.

"We have a serious problem but we are taking measures to control the situation," said Marigat DC Saul Muyaywa.

Schools which have been closed down include Arabal Chetinginy, Ngelecha, Sinoning among others.

Muyaywa said the schools cannot operate because of the insecurity.

Reports indicate that more than 4,000 people are residing at the Muchongoi Catholic Church.

Muyaywa said the government has deployed GSU and Anti-Stock Theft Unit personnel to pursue the rustlers and patrol the area.

"There are gangs which are engaging in retaliatory attacks but we will soon stop them," Muyaywa said.

Tension is high in villages in Arabal where the DC said almost all families have abandoned their homes.

"The situation in Arabal is critical and unless something is done, we are likely to lose many people in revenge attacks," said human rights crusader Harun Ole Mpaka.

Officials from the Kenya Red Cross Society are helping residents who have taken refuge in churches and schools.

Muyaywa said Red Cross staff are providing food and medical services to the displaced families.

Meanwhile, schools that had been affected by floods in Baringo have reopened.

They include Sintaan, Loropil, Salabani, Leso and Ilingarau primary schools and Ngambo Secondary School.