In a major boost for peace and security in Elgeyo Marakwet County, residents of Tot have voluntarily surrendered 22 AK-47 rifles and 108 rounds of ammunition to police.
The handover, which took place on September 22, 2025, involved communities
from eight locations: Ketut, Mokoro, Murukutwo, Chesuman, Mon, Chemwonyo,
Chechan, and Koibirir.
The exercise was coordinated through local peace committees and community
elders who have been spearheading disarmament dialogue in the region.
The cache has since been secured at Tot Police Station as authorities
process the weapons.
The National Police Service (NPS) commended residents for their cooperation
and urged continued collaboration to rid the Kerio Valley of illegal arms.
“This significant step reflects a strong community commitment to peace,
security, and voluntary disarmament,” the NPS said in a statement, lauding the
role of peace committees and local leadership in mobilising residents.
The latest development follows an earlier exercise on September 15, when
five residents from Sagat, Kasemoi, and Marich in Tot Division surrendered five
AK-47 rifles to security agencies.
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the cache
included three rifles with empty magazines, one with a magazine holding eight
rounds, and another with five rounds.
Authorities say the disarmament drive is crucial to curbing cattle rustling
and armed banditry, which have for decades destabilised the Kerio Valley.
In recent months, police have reported encouraging signs, including the
voluntary surrender of a notorious bandit who renounced crime and joined the
church.
Kerio Valley Police Commander Zablon Okoyo welcomed the latest gesture,
describing it as “a major step forward in promoting peace and disarmament in
this historically volatile area.”
The NPS has urged members of the public to emulate the move by surrendering
any illegal weapons in their possession or by sharing information that could
aid disarmament and crime prevention.
Authorities have assured that ongoing efforts will continue to focus on building trust with communities, enhancing security patrols, and fostering peaceful coexistence among rival groups in the region.
