Operation Maliza Uhalifu: 14 politicians arrested as cattle rustling cases drop by 62%
The crackdown, which began in February 2023, has also resulted in the recovery of 10,173 livestock and the seizure of 172 illegal firearms in mop-up exercises.
A total of 250 individuals, including 14 political leaders, have been arrested and prosecuted in connection with cattle rustling and banditry activities under the government’s Operation Maliza Uhalifu, the Interior Ministry has confirmed.
The crackdown, which began in February 2023, has also resulted in the recovery of 10,173 livestock and the seizure of 172 illegal firearms in mop-up exercises.
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In a statement on Wednesday, the Ministry highlighted that the operation has significantly reduced cases of cattle rustling by 62 per cent, with reported incidents dropping from 63,054 to 23,668—a decrease of 39,386 stolen livestock.
Operation Maliza Uhalifu was launched to address the escalation of banditry, cattle theft, and violence in nine counties including Baringo, Turkana, Samburu, Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, Marsabit, Laikipia, Isiolo, and Meru.
These areas, designated as "disturbed" and "dangerous," became the focus of a coordinated effort by the National Police Service (NPS) and the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).
The Interior Ministry praised the joint security approach for its success in restoring peace and stability to the region. It added that security teams have disarmed hundreds of bandits, dismantled their hideouts, and strengthened local security mechanisms.
“The security situation in the North Rift has significantly improved and this is attributed to the efforts of this multi-agency approach,” the Ministry said.
To further support security operations, the government restructured the management of National Police Reservists (NPRs).
In 2023, 1,702 reservists were recruited and trained in Baringo, Samburu, Laikipia, Meru, Turkana, and West Pokot counties. Additionally, 400 reservists in Elgeyo Marakwet and Isiolo counties were rearmed to bolster the ongoing efforts.
To enhance governance and service delivery, the government also gazetted 126 new administrative units across Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo, Turkana, Samburu, Meru, and Laikipia counties. The initiative is intended to strengthen local administration and improve responses to security challenges.
The Ministry further said that the operation’s impact on education has been significant, with previously disrupted learning now restored.
It noted that candidates were able to sit their KPSEA and KCSE exams without security challenges this year. Additionally, a budget of Sh100 million was allocated to rehabilitate 34 out of 39 schools that had been closed due to violence and displacement.
The Kenya Defence Forces has also been instrumental in reconstruction efforts, reopening 26 schools and enabling at least 4,000 children to return to class.
“Renovations have been completed or are ongoing in 21 schools, primarily in Baringo County, the hardest-hit region. In Laikipia and Samburu counties, all previously closed schools are now operational,” the Ministry said.
Despite these achievements, the Ministry said 13 schools remain closed, with pupils relocated to other institutions, primarily in Baringo, West Pokot, and Turkana counties.
The Ministry acknowledged that achieving lasting peace is an ongoing journey.
“As we move forward with Operation Maliza Uhalifu, we will continue to build on these gains for a safe North Rift and a secure Kenya,” the Ministry said.
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