We will deploy more security in regions affected by banditry
By Anthony.Mwangi, April 13, 2023Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has announced that additional security forces working in bandit prone regions of Northern Kenya will be doubled to help restore peace and order and also weed out the criminals.
Kindiki said the number of the security personnel will be increased beginning Saturday in a bid to scale up efforts to tame banditry in the North Rift.
He also disclosed that the government will employ some 2,000 police reservists in bandit prone regions to help supplement police work in fighting the vice.
The CS told MPs when he appeared before the National Assembly to answer questions from the lawmakers that despite the challenges they continue to experience in the fight against banditry in the North Rift, significant gains had been made including arresting suspects and livestock recoveries made.
Kindiki is the first CS to appear before the National Assembly to respond to questions by members following the amendment of the Standing Orders to allow the same. “The challenge is still there and it did not start last year but in 1997. We are doing everything possible to ensure it gets to a final end. We appeal for patience and we know we will get rounded once we are done,” Kindiki told the House.
He denied claims by a section of the MPs that the security personnel in the operation areas were being overrun by the bandits.
“You have assured the House that the security forces are on the ground and making gains, but what is happening on the ground is different as the bandits have continued to rein terror in the said regions especially Baringo County,” said Baringo South MP Charles Kamuren.
Recurrent attacks
Despite the ongoing operation in the North Rift, some parts including Samburu, Turkana, Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, have continued to witness recurrent attacks.
Kindiki denied claims by MPs that police used live bullets to disperse protesters during the recent street demonstrations in parts of the country.
“I can confirm that no live bullets were used during the protests despite the fact that the security personnel were pushed to the limits at some stage,” said the CS.
Tiaty MP William Kamket appealed to the CS to lift curfews in trading centres in his constituencies and also reduce road blocks.
On March 13, Kindiki ordered the immediate vacation of residents living in 27 gorges, escarpments, caves, ravines, hills, and forests as a security force moved in to expel bandits.