ELGEYO MARAKWET: The government has reaffirmed its commitment to restoring lasting peace and stability in the troubled Kerio Valley region, saying ongoing security operations have greatly reduced cases of banditry and insecurity.
Speaking during a community empowerment programme at Emsea in Keiyo South Sub-County, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said calm was gradually returning to the region, allowing residents to resume normal economic and social activities under enhanced security surveillance.
Murkomen noted that the government’s multi-agency security operations had started bearing fruit, but stressed that the progress could only be sustained through close cooperation between security agencies and local communities.
According to the CS, the government remains determined to eliminate insecurity not only in Kerio Valley but also in other affected parts of the country.
He cited parts of Samburu County, including Sarolipi and Mkokodo forest, where some armed criminals are reportedly hiding.
“We do not want Kerio Valley alone to be safe. We want the whole country to be secure and free from banditry and criminal activities,” Murkomen said.
What did Murkomen tell Kerio Valley residents?
The Interior CS also appealed to individuals still in possession of illegal firearms to voluntarily surrender them to authorities, warning that the government would firmly deal with those involved in the illegal arms trade.
“Those who are selling firearms and bullets, if we find you in any corner of the country, we will deal with you because we want our country to be safe,” he stated.
Murkomen further warned individuals involved in the sale and distribution of illegal firearms and ammunition, saying the government would not relent in dismantling criminal networks threatening public safety and stability.
His remarks come amid continued efforts by the government to restore peace in insecurity-prone regions that have for years experienced bandit attacks, displacement of families, and disruption of economic activities.
