Ruto to Baringo residents: Surrender illegal firearms or face stern action

President William Ruto addresses residents and leaders in Nakuru County on October 28, 2025./PCS

President William Ruto has issued a firm directive ordering all civilians in Baringo County possessing illegal firearms to surrender them to the government immediately or face severe consequences.

Speaking during a roadside rally in Kabarnet Town, Ruto said his administration will no longer tolerate armed criminality that has for years destabilised parts of the North Rift region.

He warned those still in possession of illegal guns that security agencies have already identified them and will take decisive action if they fail to comply.

“For a long time, Baringo has been troubled by insecurity. Time has come to deal with the issue decisively,” the President declared.

“Bandits — I will deal with them. I want to promise you, these armed cattle thieves, I will sort them out completely.”

Ruto revealed that 600 illegal firearms have so far been surrendered to authorities following an earlier amnesty but noted that many more remain in circulation.

“Don’t deceive yourselves,” he warned. “The government knows everyone who still has a gun. I have given them notice — return the guns early. And if they don’t, nobody should question me. We cannot allow this to be a county of orphans and widows.”

The President assured residents that the government has deployed additional police officers to restore order and protect communities from bandit attacks.

He further directed Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen to ensure all firearms are under government control, saying no civilian should be walking around with an unlicensed weapon.

Baringo County has for years battled banditry and cattle rustling, fueled by the proliferation of illegal firearms. The violence, particularly in Tiaty, Baringo North, and Baringo South, has claimed dozens of lives, displaced families, and disrupted education and trade.

Local leaders have repeatedly urged the national government to intensify disarmament efforts and enhance security patrols in the region.

They warn that without a lasting solution, development gains in the area will continue to be undermined by fear and instability.

Security analysts argue that while Ruto’s directive marks a strong stance against banditry, lasting peace in Baringo will require not just disarmament but also long-term investment in education, infrastructure, and economic empowerment to address the deep-rooted causes of conflict.

During the visit, Ruto launched the construction of 504 modern affordable housing units.

He also toured Baringo South Constituency and launched additional housing units and commissioned the stalled Marigat–Karandi road.

As the amnesty window closes, residents are watching closely to see whether the government’s renewed crackdown will finally bring peace to one of Kenya’s most volatile regions.