14 killed, 17 injured from banditry between June and September in Samburu, Meru, Isiolo

Nairobi, Kenya—On October 7, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen admitted that security forces deployed to combat banditry in Samburu, Meru, and Isiolo lack the necessary resources for sustained operations. Murkomen informed the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security that challenging terrain, poor infrastructure, and limited resources impeded security efforts in the affected counties.

He emphasized that the current personnel and equipment were insufficient for prolonged security coverage. Despite an intensified crackdown resulting in the recovery of 2,395 illegally held firearms and 3,221 stolen livestock between June and September, the government acknowledges that security challenges persist.

Murkomen explained that banditry and livestock theft had evolved into organized crime, fueled by illegal firearms, commercial markets for stolen animals, and cross-county criminal networks. Climate-induced migration and competition for pasture and water resources have further exacerbated conflicts in arid and semi-arid regions. Security operations have been bolstered by specialized units such as the General Service Unit, Anti-Stock Theft Unit, Rapid Deployment Unit, and Special Operations Group, as well as National Police Reservists.

Security camps, including Lii and Magado camps in Meru, have been established to enhance rapid response capabilities.

A devastating attack in Samburu on September 16 claimed five lives, including two police officers, one National Police Reservist, and two civilians. The attackers stole government weapons and ammunition, which remains under investigation. Murkomen noted that efforts to recover the stolen equipment were ongoing. The Interior Ministry reported that certain areas, including parts of Laikipia, Meru, and Isiolo, were declared "Security Disturbed and Dangerous" on March 26, and these regions continue to require active security measures.

Despite deploying 10,000 new officers and planning to recruit additional National Police Reservists, Murkomen acknowledged that the scale and terrain of the affected areas remain a significant challenge. The government seeks additional budgetary support from Parliament to improve roads and infrastructure crucial for enhancing security agencies' movement and response capacity.

The Chief of Staff also called for a thorough investigation into the reported deaths of 237 cattle and nine donkeys following an incident in Samburu, reporting that the Inspector General had ordered an inquiry into the incident, allegations, and responsible parties.

To address the root causes of insecurity, Murkomen highlighted the government's commitment to combining security operations with peacebuilding initiatives, including engaging with community leaders, fostering dialogue, establishing early-warning mechanisms, and promoting alternative livelihood programs. The Interior Ministry identified market access for stolen livestock, illegal firearms, inter-community mistrust, climate change, limited livelihood opportunities, and cross-county criminal movement as key factors sustaining insecurity.

Murkomen stressed that security operations alone cannot resolve inter-community conflicts and that a comprehensive approach is necessary to tackle both immediate threats and underlying socio-economic issues.