The government has once again opened a two-week window for those in possession of illegal firearms to surrender.
Interior and National Administration CS Kipchumba Murkomen has called on Kenyans, especially in bandit-prone areas and those facing land clashes along the borders, to hand in their illegally acquired guns.
The CS noted that those firearms have led to loss of lives and livestock, warning that failure to take advantage of the amnesty, the security agencies will conduct targeted intelligence-led operations against the individuals involved.
” Those who defy this offer will face dire consequences if we come for you. We are going to forcefully disarm you. We are going to profile, summon and seek you out, ” said the CS as he extended an olive branch to those involved and asked them to take the illegal guns to the nearest police station or local security offices.
” In the next two weeks, the IG through the DIG- APS Gilbert Masengeli is working on a strategy to conduct intelligence-led disarmament, including the weapon used in the murder of an assistant chief in Migori county, recently.”
The presence of these illegal guns has seen a surge in cases of cattle theft, land disputes and political goons.
He weighed in on the border clashes between the Kipsigis and Kuria, especially in Angata Baragoi.
Mr Murkomen commended the process so far in the North Rift region, saying in Elgeyo/ Marakwet, Baringo and West Pokot counties, notorious bandits have surrendered their weapons.
The CS also announced plans to enhance the strength of officers at the border posts in Migori County and border patrols to deal with the proliferation of weapons into the country, smuggling of illegal goods and drugs and ethanol.
It targets Muhuru Bay and Isebania, adding that the patrols will be done through a Multi Agency Team approach, including KRA and KEBs.
The CS waded into the emergence of political goons.
He put politicians on notice, taking advantage of the structured goons to terrorise opponents, warning that it poses a security threat.
Unregulated mining, sexual and GBV, FGM and harassment of fishing men are among the issues the ministry is dealing with.
