Government steps up security operations in Samburu, Meru and Isiolo says Murkomen

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen announced that the government has stepped up security operations in Samburu, Meru, and Isiolo counties to combat banditry, cattle rustling, and the unlawful possession of firearms. The security situation, while improved overall, still presents challenges, especially in areas impacted by inter-community conflicts and livestock theft.

According to Murkomen, security agencies recovered 3,221 livestock and 2,395 illegal firearms between June and September 2026. The deployment of specialized units, creation of security camps, and recruitment of National Police Reservists have bolstered the security efforts.

In Meru, Lii and Magado camps were established to address banditry and cattle rustling. However, the persistent insecurity is attributed to factors such as illegal firearms, retaliatory attacks, competition over resources, inadequate infrastructure, historical marginalization, and lack of economic opportunities.

In the region, 14 fatalities and 17 injuries were reported between June and September of this year. Recent incidents, including a September attack in Samburu that killed five people, including law enforcement officials and civilians, are being investigated. Murkomen emphasized that security measures alone cannot resolve inter-community conflicts and called for dialogue and cooperation between communities and security agencies.

He acknowledged the ongoing difficulties, including poor road and communication networks, and is seeking additional funding to improve security infrastructure. The government plans to recruit more National Police Reservists in the coming months to further strengthen security operations in the affected regions.