**Security Gains in Turkana — CS Murkomen**

 

The government is intensifying security operations in Turkana County to address persistent cross-border incursions and strengthen stability in the region, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has announced.

Speaking at the Ekalees Cultural Centre in Lodwar during the Jukwaa la Usalama forum, CS Murkomen noted that significant progress had been made in stabilising banditry-prone areas, thanks to the ongoing Operation Maliza Uhalifu. The multi-agency initiative has restored calm in Turkana East and Turkana South sub-counties, allowing displaced families to return home and schools to reopen.

“Through concerted efforts by our security teams, the situation in previously volatile areas has greatly improved. The creation of two new sub-counties has further enhanced our ability to provide services and security to our people,” said Murkomen.

However, he acknowledged that cross-border attacks remain a pressing concern due to Turkana’s unique position as Kenya’s only county sharing borders with three countries.

To counter these threats, CS Murkomen announced immediate plans to recruit and equip additional National Police Reservists (NPRs), who will work alongside the Kenya Police Service in safeguarding border areas. He also outlined plans to enhance the multi-agency security presence at key border points.

“We are deploying more boots on the ground, but this alone is not enough. Expanding mobile network coverage in remote areas will be critical for early warnings and effective response. Additionally, we recognise the urgent need to increase the number of police stations across the county, given its vast terrain,” he said.

The forum brought together grassroots leaders, NGOs, security officials and elected leaders to assess the security situation and explore sustainable interventions. Insights shared during the engagements are expected to inform policy and operational decisions in the coming months.

Among the dignitaries present were Deputy Inspector General of the Administration Police Service Gilbert Masengeli, Turkana Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai, Rift Valley Regional Commissioner Dr. Abdi Hassan, and MPs from across the county, including Cecilia Ngitit, Protus Akuja, Joseph Emathe, Nicholas Ngikor, Ekwom Nabuin, and Daniel Epuyo.

Turkana County Commissioner Julius Kavita, Regional Police Commander Jasper Ombati, Regional Administration Police Commander John Amadadi, and Speaker of the Turkana County Assembly Charles Lokiyoto also attended the forum.

CS Murkomen reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that security interventions are community-driven, collaborative and sustainable, saying, “Our long-term goal is to secure Turkana for meaningful development, not just for today, but for future generations.”