Government Launches Multi-Agency Operation to Curb Banditry in Isiolo, Laikipia

The government has launched a swift multi-agency security operation targeting banditry and the proliferation of illegal firearms in Isiolo, Laikipia, and parts of Meru counties, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has announced.

Speaking in Isiolo town after a consultative meeting with county security teams, peace committees, and local political leaders, Murkomen said the operation was prompted by a recent surge in insecurity in the region. He noted that at least three people have been killed and five others injured in violent attacks reported over the past eight days.

The Cabinet Secretary said the security operation will focus on recovering illegal firearms, flushing out bandits, and dismantling criminal networks involved in cattle rustling and related crimes. He added that authorities will also move to disrupt supply chains that sustain banditry, including individuals involved in the trade of illegal arms.

Murkomen issued a sharp warning to security agencies, criticizing what he described as poor coordination and complacency among some police units operating in the affected areas. He directed law enforcement agencies to close operational gaps and work in a more coordinated and proactive manner to restore security and protect residents.

In a further directive, the CS ordered all law-abiding citizens currently residing in Mokogondo Forest in Laikipia County to vacate the area with immediate effect. He said the move is necessary to allow security forces to conduct unhindered operations aimed at flushing out criminal elements hiding in the forest.

The government says the operation will be sustained until calm is restored, vowing to protect lives and property and bring lasting peace to the insecurity-prone regions.