Ruto warns bandits in Laikipia’s Mugogodo Forest to leave or face crackdown

President William Ruto speaking during a development tour in Laikipia North on May 8, 2026/ PCS

President William Ruto has warned suspected bandits and armed criminals believed to be hiding in Mugogodo Forest in Laikipia County to leave the area immediately or face a renewed security crackdown.

Speaking during a development tour in Laikipia North on Friday, Ruto said the government had already dealt with most of the criminals linked to insecurity in the region but warned that a few were still operating within the forest.

“The criminals who had been troubling us with insecurity issues, I have dealt with most of them. A few are still remaining, but I am issuing them with a warning today; they should run,” Ruto said.

He specifically mentioned Mugogodo Forest, an expansive forested area that has in the past been associated with cattle rustling and armed criminal activity affecting parts of Laikipia and neighbouring counties.

“Those people who are still roaming around here, especially in Mugogodo Forest, tell them to leave the forest. Otherwise, if they remain there, they will meet me,” he warned.

Ruto said the government remained committed to restoring peace and stability in the region to enable residents to carry out their daily activities without fear.

“We must secure our communities so that our livestock are safe, our children are safe, and so that our children can go to school peacefully,” the President said.

The Head of State has in recent months repeatedly pledged to intensify operations against banditry and cattle rustling in parts of the North Rift and neighbouring regions, saying insecurity continues to disrupt livelihoods and development.

His remarks came as he toured several projects in Laikipia County, where he also announced new infrastructure and development investments.

Ruto said the government had allocated Sh4 billion for the construction of the long-awaited 60-kilometre Nanyuki-Doldol road, with the contractor expected to begin work soon.

“We are implementing inclusive development programmes so that no part of Kenya or community is left behind,” Ruto said.

He added that the government was currently constructing 217 kilometres of roads across Laikipia County to improve connectivity and open up the region for trade and investment.

The President also announced the allocation of Sh60 million for the construction of five new schools in Laikipia North to improve access to education.

In addition, Ruto said the government was investing Sh15 billion under the Affordable Housing Programme, which will also include the construction of 13 modern markets within the county.

During the visit, the President laid the foundation stone for the Doldol Huduma Centre, which will house an ICT hub and offer 168 government services closer to residents.

He also addressed residents in Doldol town and handed over a school bus to Kurum Day Secondary School.

Ruto said the government’s broader agenda was to ensure all regions benefit from national development regardless of their location or historical marginalisation.

The President’s warning comes amid ongoing security operations targeting armed groups involved in livestock theft, highway robberies and attacks on local communities in parts of northern Kenya.

President William Ruto speaking during a development tour in Laikipia North on May 8, 2026/ PCS