Murkomen confirms 285 firearms surrendered in Kerio Valley
By Kenneth Mwenda, October 4, 2025Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has confirmed that 285 firearms and more than 2,000 rounds of ammunition have been surrendered in the Kerio Valley. He said the move marks a turning point in the government’s bid to end banditry in the North Rift.
Speaking on Saturday, October 4, 2025, Murkomen noted that the initiative aims to silence guns in the valley and restore normal life. He commended former bandits who handed over the weapons, saying they had embraced peace and were ready to reintegrate into society.
Also Watch: Murkomen calls for professionalism in police service amid reforms
“We commend the reformed bandits who accepted our olive branch and have since surrendered firearms. The government will support them through a comprehensive anti-radicalisation and reintegration programme to ensure they fully return to productive community life,” he said.
The CS explained that the region is already experiencing visible progress. Murkomen made the announcement during an empowerment drive held in Sambirir, Marakwet East. The event was attended by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who has been a key supporter of the disarmament programme, alongside several political leaders from Elgeyo Marakwet and neighbouring counties.
OMU gains
His remarks come just weeks after he hailed OMU’s progress during the Operation Maliza Uhalifu North Rift Sports for Peace Tournament in Chemolingot, Baringo County. At the August event, Murkomen praised the operation for restoring calm in several troubled areas and for using sports to promote dialogue and unity among communities.
“Operation Maliza Uhalifu has recorded remarkable success in silencing guns and restoring peace in the Kerio Valley region,” he said at the time. He urged local leaders to keep supporting the security initiative and stressed the importance of reconciliation for sustainable development.
The Kerio Valley has in the past witnessed violent attacks and deadly livestock raids. In March, two pupils were among four people killed in separate incidents, while in April, a retired police reservist was shot dead while herding livestock in Elgeyo Marakwet. Residents have long complained about cross-border raids from neighbouring counties.
Murkomen assured the public that the government’s efforts are paying off. He said the combination of security operations, development projects, and community initiatives is creating a new sense of hope for families that have lived under fear for years.
“The guns are falling silent, normalcy is returning, and the empowerment of local communities is taking shape,” Murkomen said. “Our collective efforts are beginning to bear tangible results.”