Ten illegal firearms surrendered in Kerio Valley as part of ongoing disarmament efforts

In a significant development for security and peace efforts in the region, members of the public in Kerio Valley voluntarily surrendered a total of 10 illegal firearms, along with ammunition and a cleaning kit, marking a decisive step forward in the ongoing disarmament initiatives in the area.

This voluntary surrender, carried out under the umbrella of the National Police Service, is part of a broader operation to rid the valley of illegal weapons and ensure lasting peace.

The National Police Service stated that the firearms, which are now in police custody, will undergo further administrative action as part of the continued security efforts.

Speaking about the success of the operation, the National Police Service commended the individuals who voluntarily surrendered their weapons and urged those still in possession of illegal arms to follow suit.

According to police reports, in less than a week, approximately 30 illegal firearms have been handed over by members of both the Pokot and Marakwet communities, following a 7-day amnesty period issued as part of Operation Maliza Uhalifu (OMU).

In a statement, the police highlighted that the operation has garnered widespread public support and has significantly contributed to the restoration of peace and tranquillity in the region. This marks a breakthrough, as previous security operations in the valley, dating back to the 1980s, had not achieved similar results.

"Operations in Kerio Valley have often been met with limited success, but with Operation Maliza Uhalifu, we are seeing tangible results," said the National Police Service. "This success can be attributed to the strong cooperation between security agencies and the local community."

Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich also expressed his gratitude for the positive progress made under the current disarmament initiative.

As Chair of the North Rift Governors' Peace Caucus, Rotich acknowledged the critical role played by national leaders, especially President William Samoei Ruto and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, as well as local security forces, in this groundbreaking achievement.

"I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to President Ruto, CS Murkomen, and all the security agencies involved in this tremendous progress," Governor Rotich said. "The community's support has been overwhelming, and it is clear that we all share a collective desire for lasting peace and tranquillity."

The governor also addressed the long-standing issue of banditry, which has plagued the region for decades. "Banditry has been with us for years, and while we have suffered, it is now time for us to shift our focus toward more productive sectors of the economy," Rotich said.

"We are committed to helping our communities build alternative livelihoods, particularly through agriculture, and we are in the final stages of deploying extension officers who will focus on high-value agriculture across the valley."

Governor Rotich urged those who still possess illegal firearms to come forward and surrender them voluntarily before the opportunity expires. He emphasised that community elders, clergy, local chiefs, and security officers are on standby to assist in the surrender process.

"Those who have not yet surrendered their weapons, now is the time to do so. The chance to hand over arms peacefully is still available," Rotich stated.

"Let us work together to build a safer and more prosperous future for all," he added.

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As part of the ongoing peacebuilding efforts, the local government is also focusing on strengthening community-based initiatives aimed at economic empowerment and social stability.