Murkomen reveals new plan to end Isiolo banditry

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has unveiled a new government plan to combat the ongoing banditry and cattle rustling issues in Isiolo County. The strategy involves a combination of intensified security measures and infrastructure development projects. In a statement on his official X account on September 28, 2026, Murkomen emphasized the need for immediate security interventions and long-term development initiatives, stating that historical marginalization in pastoralist regions has contributed to the persistence of these crimes.

Following a meeting with local leaders, Murkomen highlighted that addressing development challenges is crucial to finding a permanent solution to the security concerns. He proposed enhancing road connectivity as a key step, arguing that improved roads would link remote communities with the rest of the country and foster economic growth.

The government is also planning to invest in infrastructure by constructing access roads in the affected areas. On the security side, Murkomen announced plans to increase the number of National Police Reservists (NPRs) to be trained and deployed in the problematic regions. Additionally, more police stations and security camps would be established in hotspots of banditry.

The government will also provide additional security equipment to the officers on the ground. These measures are being implemented in response to a series of recent violent incidents in Isiolo and neighboring counties. Notably, five individuals were killed in an ambush on September 16 in Gotu, Isiolo County. A week later, a National Police Reservist escorting a convoy was shot and injured, and two vehicles were damaged during the attack.

Local leaders, including Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo, Senator Fatuma Dullo, and Woman Representative Mumina Bonaya, have called for immediate government action following these killings. Murkomen has since announced intensified security operations in Isiolo and Samburu, focusing on recovering illegal firearms and disrupting armed groups.

The CS has also instructed security agencies to exercise caution during operations, particularly after reports of livestock being killed during a recent security operation in Samburu.