Leaders in Baringo have urged Interior CS Fred Matiang’i to reinstate the National Police Reservists to curb perennial cattle rustling and banditry in the area.
Led by Baringo North MP William Cheptumo, they said due to increased insecurity incidents in recent weeks, residents are no longer at ease because they don’t know where the enemy will strike next.
The legislator said when the government deployed about 500 police officers and NPR in 2017, the security situation in the area improved by about 60 per cent.
He said the situation has since deteriorated after reservists who played a crucial role in supporting the security apparatus in repulsing criminals were withdrawn.
“We want NPR to be reintroduced in our region because they are able to guide and support the security personnel since they are conversant with the terrain,” Cheptumo said.
The legislator spoke at Kabarnet ASK Showgrounds on Friday during a boda boda association AGM. He said that the business of the government was to guarantee the protection and safety of its people.
Baringo South MP Charles Kamuren said the NPR is a special unit detailed to help police maintain the general security of most pastoralist communities.
He lamented that by withdrawing their services, especially in volatile areas of Baringo North and South, it was like endangering the lives of civilians.
Kamuren said criminals were taking advantage of the security lapse to cause mayhem since there are not enough security officers to guarantee residents safety every day.
He added that their petition to be granted NPRs has been canvassed in the National Assembly and leaders presented a proposal to the Interior ministry, but the reservists are yet to be deployed to volatile areas in the county.
Baringo Deputy Governor Jacob Chepkwony urged residents to champion peace by reporting criminals.
He said areas along the borders of Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Turkana, West Pokot and Laikipia counties will enjoy peace when neighbouring communities embrace harmonious living.
Edited by A.N
