Police recover two rifles in operation at Achers Post, Samburu
The weapons included an Ak47 rifle and a G3 rifle
5mon agoCYRUS OMBATIRealtime
Some of the mobile phones recovered in the raid./HANDOUT
At least four suspected bandits were killed on Tuesday during a security operation in Kubisera village, Igembe, Meru County.
The multi-agency operation also led to the recovery of six AK-47 rifles, 527 rounds of ammunition, and eight mobile phones.
The raid, targeting a makeshift camp believed to be operated by the suspects, was part of a wider government crackdown on rising banditry in the region.
Authorities said the area has seen a surge in attacks, prompting urgent intervention by security forces.
“The operation was successful. Our officers managed to recover weapons and neutralise suspects who have been terrorizing residents,” a police official said.
Following growing public concern, the government has ramped up efforts to curb the menace, including the launch of a specialised unit and enhanced patrols in affected areas.
In a parallel move, all members of the National Police Reserve are now undergoing a vetting process amid concerns that some may have gone rogue.
The vetting includes fresh training, a restructured command chain, and welfare improvements such as increased stipends and access to medical cover.
The process is currently underway across the larger Kerio Valley region.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen recently noted a significant decline in banditry cases this year, attributing the progress to coordinated efforts between the National Police Service and other security agencies.
Between January and March 2025, 21 people were reported killed in banditry-related incidents — a marked drop from 58 fatalities recorded during the same period in 2024.
The victims included a police officer, eight civilians, and 12 suspects.
The number of livestock theft cases also dropped during the first quarter of 2025, with 167 cases reported compared to 263 in the same period last year.
Authorities said 4,935 animals were stolen this year, down from 8,557 in early 2024.
Despite the progress, Murkomen acknowledged that the war on banditry remains far from over.
He cited persistent challenges including the proliferation of illegal firearms, political interference, land disputes, and difficult terrain with limited infrastructure and mobile network coverage.
“These gains are encouraging, but we are still facing serious obstacles. The government is investing in infrastructure, schools, and better equipment for our officers to strengthen our response,” he said.
The operation in Igembe forms part of the broader Operation Maliza Uhalifu North Rift, launched in February 2023.
The government-led initiative brings together the National Police Service and the Kenya Defence Forces in a coordinated campaign to root out banditry and cattle rustling across nine counties: Baringo, Turkana, Samburu, Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, Marsabit, Laikipia, Isiolo, and Meru.
Several areas within these counties have been designated as “disturbed” and “dangerous” zones, where security agencies continue to engage in operations aimed at restoring peace and stability.
As the security crackdown intensifies, residents in the affected regions remain hopeful that lasting calm will be restored.
