MIGORI, Kenya – Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has announced a fresh two-week amnesty for individuals in possession of illegal firearms, warning that those who fail to comply will face forceful disarmament.
Speaking on Thursday, Murkomen urged Kenyans, particularly in bandit-prone regions and border areas affected by land clashes, to surrender their weapons at the nearest police station or security offices.
“These guns have caused untold suffering through loss of lives, livestock and property. Those who defy this offer will face dire consequences. We are going to forcefully disarm you, profile you, summon you and seek you out,” the CS said.
Murkomen disclosed that Inspector General Douglas Kanja, through Deputy IG of the Administration Police Service Gilbert Masengeli, has been tasked with rolling out an intelligence-led disarmament strategy.
The operation will also target the firearm used in the recent killing of an assistant chief in Migori County.
The CS linked illegal firearms to escalating cases of cattle rustling, land disputes, and political violence.
He cited ongoing tensions between the Kipsigis and Kuria communities in Angata Baragoi as examples of the deadly impact of unlicensed weapons.
Despite the challenges, Murkomen commended progress in the North Rift, noting that some notorious bandits in Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo and West Pokot counties had already surrendered their guns.
To curb cross-border smuggling, the ministry plans to bolster security in Migori County by enhancing patrols in Muhuru Bay and Isebania.
The operation will be carried out by a multi-agency team that includes the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS).
Murkomen also issued a stern warning to politicians accused of sponsoring “structured goons” to harass opponents, saying such actions threaten national security.
Beyond gun-related concerns, the CS revealed that the ministry is tackling other security challenges, including unregulated mining, gender-based violence, female genital mutilation, and harassment of fishermen.
“The government is committed to addressing all emerging threats, whether from illegal arms, political thuggery, or harmful practices,” Murkomen affirmed.
