Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen announced that over 700 illegal firearms have been voluntarily surrendered in the North Rift region as part of the government's anti-banditry campaign. He reported that Baringo County yielded 370 weapons, while Elgeyo-Marakwet contributed more than 300, though West Pokot was noted for slower progress. Murkomen warned remaining gun owners that the state possesses detailed intelligence about their illicit arsenals and expects full compliance.
The government plans to publicly burn the recovered weapons once the total exceeds one thousand, an event intended to symbolize a permanent end to banditry. Murkomen credited the killing of Father Allois Bett as a turning point that galvanized state action. He further declared that peace in Kerio Valley is now permanent, reinforced by sustained security operations.
Officials link the improved security to the gun surrender initiative and increased government investment. Murkomen also revealed plans to construct an airport or airstrip in Tot within one year, describing the facility as a strategic asset for both security and regional economic development.
The government plans to publicly burn the recovered weapons once the total exceeds one thousand, an event intended to symbolize a permanent end to banditry. Murkomen credited the killing of Father Allois Bett as a turning point that galvanized state action. He further declared that peace in Kerio Valley is now permanent, reinforced by sustained security operations.
Officials link the improved security to the gun surrender initiative and increased government investment. Murkomen also revealed plans to construct an airport or airstrip in Tot within one year, describing the facility as a strategic asset for both security and regional economic development.
