The government has stepped up efforts to curb insecurity in the North Eastern and upper eastern regions, launching a renewed crackdown on illegal firearms and criminal networks amid rising cases of cattle rustling.
Speaking during a high-level security meeting in Meru County, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said the proliferation of illicit small arms from neighboring countries continues to fuel banditry in pastoralist areas.
“The proliferation of small arms from neighboring countries continues to fuel banditry and cattle rustling in pastoralist counties,” Murkomen stated, noting that ongoing operations in Elgeyo-Marakwet County, Baringo County, West Pokot County, Turkana County and Isiolo County have already restored relative calm.
However, he warned that the success of these operations has pushed criminal elements into previously stable areas, contributing to a recent spike in cattle rustling in the Northern Grazing Zone of Meru.
“This partly explains the surge in cattle rustling in the Northern Grazing Zone of Meru County in the past few days,” he said.
The CS revealed that he convened the security meeting at Mbataru RDU Camp in Tigania East Sub-County to develop immediate interventions to address the emerging threat.
As part of the response, the National Police Service has deployed 400 additional officers to reinforce security operations in affected areas.
Authorities will also roll out a fresh disarmament exercise targeting illegal firearms in Samburu County, Laikipia County, Isiolo and Meru counties.
“We shall also commence an operation to mop up illegal firearms… and intensify efforts to recover stolen livestock while reorganizing the National Police Reservists to better protect communities,” Murkomen added.
The meeting brought together top security officials, including Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, alongside regional and county administrators.
Political leaders present included Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma and Isiolo Governor Abdi Hassan Guyo, as well as Members of Parliament and local leaders.
The government reiterated its commitment to restoring stability, protecting livelihoods, and preventing the spread of insecurity across regions, particularly in vulnerable pastoralist communities where livestock remains a key economic resource.