By Faith Nyabuto
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen on Wednesday met with residents and local administrators in West Pokot County to address the growing insecurity in the region.
Speaking during a community security engagement forum, Murkomen emphasized the need for collective responsibility in combating crime, particularly in the volatile Cheptulel and Chesogon areas.
He called on chiefs, assistant chiefs, commissioners, and security officers to step up their efforts in restoring peace and stability, noting that the region’s proximity to Uganda and the counties of Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo, and Turkana contributes to recurring inter-community conflicts.
“Many of the attacks we’ve witnessed stem from cross-border banditry. We must work together to stop this cycle of violence,” the CS said.
He commended the ongoing multi-agency initiative dubbed Operation Maliza Uhalifu, which has been instrumental in reducing violence and promoting peace in the northern region.
According to Murkomen, the collaboration between security personnel and the community has yielded noticeable improvements, especially in reducing livestock theft.
“Security operations are ongoing to flush out criminals from their hideouts. We will arrest them and ensure they are punished according to the law,” he said, adding that efforts will be intensified to secure porous borders and monitor unauthorized routes often exploited by criminals.
Firearms in wrong hands
Murkomen also raised concerns about the illegal trade in firearms and minerals. He confirmed that individuals engaged in these activities are under surveillance and will face legal consequences.
“Foreigners involved in illegal mining without proper documentation will be held accountable in a court of law,” he warned.
The CS decried the prevalence of substandard housing in the region and assured residents that the government had allocated funds to support housing improvement projects for vulnerable families.
He also condemned the influx of illicit alcohol and smuggled goods entering Kenya through the Uganda border, saying such activities were undermining the wellbeing of young people and the local economy.
On the issue of human trafficking, Murkomen gave a stern warning, saying suspects will be “mercilessly dealt with.”
He urged the residents to cooperate with local authorities and government agencies in reporting suspicious activity and promoting peaceful coexistence.