Over 60 guns surrendered so far in Kerio Valley as state steps up peace, security efforts

About 60 guns have so far been surrendered to police in Kerio Valley where a security operation against banditry is ongoing.

 This comes as the number of bandits who have surrendered also increased to more than 30 within the last three weeks.

 Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen has organised to host more dialogue meetings with communities to strengthen the peace and security efforts.

 The peaceful and voluntary disarmament exercise in the region continues to gain momentum, with Tot police station receiving 57 of the rifles and several bullets voluntarily surrendered by residents.

 The National Police Service says the success of the exercise represents a critical milestone in strengthening national security and fostering long-term stability in the region.

 “It works to eliminate illegal firearms, which greatly increase the risk of armed conflict, banditry and violent crime—issues that have historically undermined community safety,” said a statement from the NPS.

 NPS said the move also underscores the power of dialogue, collaboration and mutual trust between security agencies and the communities they serve.

 “The National Police Service commends the public for their cooperation and continues to encourage further action as we work collectively towards building peace,” NPS said.

 Murkomen said the latest successes indicate a shifting trend that may lead to lasting peace in the Kerio Valley region that has for long been known as the valley of death.

 The government has also unveiled a plan to invest over Sh1 billion on developing infrastructure and other public facilities in the region where many families are now returning to their homes due to the prevailing security and peace.

 More of the bandits are expected to walk into police stations and surrender as security teams tighten the noose around those targeted for perpetrating deadly cattle rustling attacks.

 Two of the most wanted bandits recently surrendered at Kabetwa in Marakwet West where they handed in two AK 47 Rifles, 21 bullets and police uniforms.

 Elgeyo Marakwet county police commander Benson Mulinge said the two were now in the hands of police for further action. “They were the two most wanted criminals linked to banditry and they came in and handed over the guns.”

 He said many of wanted bandits had surrendered and gave in their guns to security teams.

 “We are warning all those who are still out there to surrender before we get them,” Mulinge said, adding that the security situation in Kerio Valley had improved significantly.

 The government launched a major security operation in the region after the killing of Catholic priest fr Allois Bett early this year.

 Murkomen has been frequenting the region to lead the security operation.

 Mulinge said they were working with local communities to ensure security is enhanced.

 “This is very positive progress and we are hoping to make more gains in the near future so that our people can enjoy lasting peace and security,” he said.

 Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich said they fully support the security operation in the region and also urged residents to work with security teams to restore lasting peace in the region.

 He said cases of banditry attacks had largely declined leading to renewed hope for development in the region.

 “With the return of peace and security, our people will now focus more on reviving development activities which had stalled for many years,” Rotich said.