Police recover illegal firearms as peaceful disarmament gains momentum in Kerio Valley

Police have recovered two illegal firearms and ten rounds of ammunition at Tot Police Station in Kerio Valley after residents voluntarily surrendered the weapons under an ongoing peaceful disarmament exercise aimed at restoring security in the region.

The National Police Service (NPS) said the surrender marked a significant step in efforts to reduce armed violence among communities that have experienced prolonged conflict.

“This milestone reflects the effectiveness of the sustained dialogue and confidence-building measures undertaken by the National Police Service and other security stakeholders in the region,” the NPS said in a statement shared on X.

The Service reaffirmed its commitment to continue the exercise through enhanced community engagement, alongside intelligence-led operations designed to strengthen security and prevent the proliferation of illegal firearms.

The disarmament initiative forms part of broader government efforts to restore peace in volatile areas, including Kerio Valley, parts of Elgeyo Marakwet, and Tana River County.

Last week, at least 11 firearms were surrendered to police in Tana River County following the announcement of a 60-day amnesty period by the regional security team, encouraging residents to hand in illegal weapons without fear of prosecution.

President William Ruto has repeatedly emphasized his administration’s resolve to curb the circulation of illicit arms.

In June 2025, during a public exercise in Ngong, Kajiado County, where 6,000 firearms were destroyed, the President warned of the dangers posed by illegal weapons.

“A firearm in the wrong hands is not just a potent weapon; it is a direct assault on the safety of our citizens, the stability of our society, and the peace we have worked so diligently to build,” President Ruto said at the time.

He added, “We will not allow violence to take root in our communities. Our commitment to disarming those who threaten our peace is unwavering.”

Security agencies say the continued cooperation of local communities will be critical in sustaining peace and ending cycles of violence linked to the widespread availability of illegal firearms.

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