Laikipia banditry: KDF targets inaccessible areas as govt opens new security front

Residents of Laikipia, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Turkana and Isiolo counties continue to grapple with the consequences of banditry and livestock theft, even as security conditions have shown improvement since targeted operations against armed groups. Defence Principal Secretary Patrick Mariru spoke on the security situation at Mazingira Day celebrations in Laikipia County on October 10, 2026, unveiling plans to open Olmoran Police Station and enhance road access in previously insecure areas.

Mariru affirmed that security had markedly improved in the five affected counties, but conceded that competition for limited resources like pasture and water persisted as a major catalyst for conflicts among bandits. The impacted communities have endured livestock theft, armed assaults, and displacement, with insecurity undermining schooling and economic activities.

Families residing in these insecure locales have suffered losses of livestock, abandonment of homes, and challenges accessing vital services like schools. Certain schools have even been compelled to shut down due to attacks and threats to students and educators. Mariru pointed out that competition over dwindling resources, particularly in livestock-dependent communities, continues to exacerbate tensions and fuel confrontations.

Schools have resumed operation in certain previously affected zones, while new educational facilities construction has recommenced. Nonetheless, the revival of schooling does not absolve the broader security predicaments faced by communities that have experienced armed incursions and livestock theft. Mariru disclosed that the Kenya Defence Forces have initiated the opening of roads in previously inaccessible regions, as directed by President William Ruto.

These newly accessible roads aim to facilitate security personnel's reach to stricken areas where inadequate transport infrastructure has hampered prompt response to attacks. Additionally, Mariru announced the forthcoming opening of Olmoran Police Station to bolster security coverage and swifter incident response. The government has been spearheading multi-agency operations under Operation Maliza Uhalifu, a joint endeavor by the Kenya Defence Forces and the National Police Service, aimed at curbing banditry and insecurity in the affected counties, including Laikipia and Baringo.

Mariru reiterated that the government's dedication to maintaining security would persist, alongside efforts to mitigate conflicts over pasture and water. For residents, the pressing concern remains the efficacy of the improved road access, police presence, and security operations in thwarting further attacks and enabling families to live, work, and educate their children without fear.