Human Rights Activist Hails ‘Historic’ Recovery of 150 Firearms in Elgeyo Marakwet, Calls for National Recognition of Security Team

 

Eldoret Based Human Rights Activist Kipkorir Ngetich

Eldoret-based human rights activist Kipkorir Ngetich has commended the Elgeyo Marakwet County security team for what he termed as a “historic and unprecedented” milestone in the fight against banditry and insecurity in the North Rift.

Within a matter of weeks, security officers in the volatile Kerio Valley region successfully oversaw the voluntary surrender of more than 150 firearms, several rounds of ammunition, and other deadly weapons previously in the hands of bandits. According to Ngetich, the success of this exercise marks a turning point not only for Elgeyo Marakwet County but also for the country as a whole.

The peaceful disarmament exercise was spearheaded by County Police Commander Peter Mulinge, County Criminal Investigations Officer Richard Okeri, and County NIS boss Ganya Abudho. Ngetich said the coordinated approach, executed with unity of purpose and without sabotage, has demonstrated that alternative methods of conflict resolution can succeed where forceful disarmament has often failed.

“This is a historic achievement. For the first time, bandits themselves have voluntarily surrendered weapons and, more importantly, agreed to be reintegrated into society. They are no longer just the problem — they have become part of the solution in driving peacebuilding and reconciliation in Elgeyo Marakwet,” Ngetich stated.

He noted that the strategy embraced by the officers was rooted in dialogue, trust, and collaboration with local communities. Religious leaders, local administrators, and ordinary residents played a vital role in persuading armed groups to surrender their weapons and embrace peace.

“Such unity between the security sector and the community is exactly what our Constitution envisions under alternative dispute resolution and leadership. It proves that dialogue and trust-building are as powerful as force when dealing with deep-rooted insecurity,” he added.

Ngetich urged President William Ruto, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, and NIS Director General Noordin Haji to recognize the officers’ efforts during the upcoming Mashujaa Day celebrations. He said their courage, innovation, and dedication deserve formal recognition through awards, promotions, and public commendations.

“These gallant and brave officers have written unforgettable history in combating banditry. Their actions have restored hope in a region that has long lived under the shadow of violence. Recognizing them will not only motivate them but also inspire other officers across the country to adopt similar people-centered approaches,” Ngetich said.

The activist reminded Kenyans of the heavy toll banditry has exacted over the years, recalling tragedies such as the Suguta Valley massacre in which dozens of security officers lost their lives. He argued that the recent surrender of firearms in Elgeyo Marakwet proves that peaceful strategies, when carefully planned and supported, can achieve what years of armed crackdowns could not.

However, Ngetich warned that the gains in Elgeyo Marakwet remain fragile unless neighboring counties act swiftly to prevent the inflow of illegal arms.

“Elgeyo Marakwet is now safer, but the counties of Baringo, West Pokot, Turkana, and Samburu remain vulnerable. If they do not urgently coordinate and learn from the Elgeyo strategy, there is a real risk that arms will flow back into this community, undoing the progress made. We are urging security teams in those counties to benchmark immediately with Elgeyo Marakwet and replicate this success,” he cautioned.

He also appealed to civil society organizations and Kenyans at large to shift from blanket condemnation of security officers to offering constructive support when positive achievements are recorded.

“For too long, we have only highlighted failures in policing. This success story proves that when security officers, communities, and leaders work together, the results can be transformative. Instead of criticism alone, let us also congratulate, support, and encourage our officers when they get it right,” Ngetich urged.

According to the activist, the peaceful disarmament has already allowed residents of Elgeyo Marakwet to return to farming, schooling, and other economic activities that had been disrupted by violence. Families previously displaced by insecurity are beginning to rebuild their lives, while young men who once hid in forests with guns are rejoining their communities as contributors to national development.

He concluded by encouraging the officers to sustain the campaign until every illegal weapon is surrendered and lasting peace is restored:

“The recovery of over 150 guns is only the beginning. We must continue with the same spirit, ensuring that the last firearm in the hands of bandits is safely surrendered. Our gallant officers have shown the nation that force is not the only solution — and that peace, once given a chance, can deliver results we never thought possible.”

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