Murkomen reveals reason behind surge in coffee theft
By Kenneth Mwenda, December 30, 2025Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has warned criminals involved in coffee theft that the government will arrest them using intelligence-led operations, as rising coffee prices continue to attract organised theft.
Speaking on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, in Karara, Cherangany, Trans Nzoia County, Murkomen said improved performance in agriculture and the economy has pushed up coffee prices, but the gains have also led to increased criminal activity targeting farmers.
He directly linked the rise in theft to the strong dollar returns earned from coffee exports.
“The President has worked to stabilise the economy, reduce fertiliser prices and secure markets for our produce. That is why coffee prices are high,” Murkomen said. “But because prices have gone up, theft has also increased.”
Course of action
The CS instructed the OCS of the region to deal firmly with coffee theft to ensure farmers feel safe keeping their produce at home. He issued a blunt warning to criminals, saying the government would pursue them relentlessly.
“You may think you are hiding, but we have a plan for you. We are very serious,” he said.
Murkomen cited recent security operations in Elgeyo Marakwet and the wider Kerio Valley as proof that sustained action delivers results. He said security agencies had recovered more than 1,000 illegal firearms in the region, leading to a gradual return to calm.
He also referenced recent tensions in Angata Barikoi, where authorities moved quickly to prevent violence. Murkomen said he travelled to the area personally and ordered the surrender of all illegal firearms. Within five days, residents handed in 15 guns.
Police training and security
Murkomen also addressed the issue of the newly established Kerio Valley police training grounds. The government plans to use the facility to complement existing police colleges at Kiganjo and Embakasi, not replace them. The training grounds will support practical training in challenging terrain, including forests and bandit-prone areas.
The Interior CS dismissed claims that the government plans to relocate police colleges to the Kerio Valley. He said Kiganjo and Embakasi A and B will remain operational, while the new grounds in Samburu, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, and West Pokot will expand training capacity.
He also revealed plans to upgrade the Kiganjo Police Training College into a full campus of the National Police University to support continuous training for serving officers.