Silverio Omari
The government’s security initiatives aimed at restoring peace in the North Rift have resulted in a 62% reduction in cattle rustling, with incidents falling from 63,054 stolen livestock to 23,668. Known as Operation Maliza Uhalifu, the initiative saw the deployment of the National Police Service (NPS) and the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) to stabilize hotspot areas, including Baringo, Turkana, Samburu, Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, Marsabit, Laikipia, Isiolo, and Meru.
The operation also led to the recovery of 172 illegal firearms and 10,173 livestock during the mop-up efforts. In addition, 250 suspects, including 14 political leaders, were arrested and prosecuted for allegedly inciting violence in the region.
“The security situation in the North Rift has greatly improved, thanks to the coordinated efforts of this multi-agency approach,” read part of the statement.
“Security officers on the ground have successfully disarmed hundreds of bandits, dismantled their hideouts in challenging terrains, and restored stability to the affected communities.” Over 1,702 reservists were recruited and trained to support the operation in Baringo, Samburu, Laikipia, Meru, Turkana, and West Pokot.
Furthermore, the State gazetted 126 new administrative units across the region to strengthen local governance and improve the response to security challenges.
The operation also contributed to enhanced security, enabling students to sit for KCSE and KPSEA exams without disruption. Additionally, the KDF helped rebuild 26 schools that had been closed due to banditry.
“No schools were closed in Elgeyo Marakwet County, and all previously closed schools in Laikipia and Samburu are now operational.”
While celebrating these accomplishments, the Interior Ministry acknowledged the need for continued efforts to reopen 13 schools that remain closed in Baringo, West Pokot, and Turkana Counties.
Dj Vnyash
