Security and peacebuilding efforts in the volatile Kerio Valley received a major boost after residents voluntarily surrendered 27 illegal firearms to the police in Tot, Elgeyo Marakwet County.
The weapons, which included AK-47 and G3 rifles, were handed over on Tuesday through the cooperation of community members and Peace Committees in Ketut, Chemwonyo, Kibaimwa, Mon, Chesuman, Kaben, and Endo. Authorities confirmed that the arms have since been taken into safe custody.
This latest development is part of the ongoing ‘Operation Rudisha Bunduki’ (Return the Gun), a government-led disarmament exercise aimed at curbing banditry and restoring long-term peace in the region. With this surrender, the total number of firearms recovered under the initiative has risen to 232, alongside 1,595 rounds of ammunition.
The National Police Service commended local leaders, elders, and residents for their goodwill, noting that their cooperation reflects a growing commitment to ending cycles of violence in the Kerio Valley.
“We urge members of the public to continue supporting this amnesty program by volunteering information and surrendering illegal weapons. Lasting peace and security in the region depends on collective responsibility,” police authorities said in a statement.
The disarmament comes amid intensified peace dialogues, as communities that have long suffered recurrent clashes begin to embrace reconciliation and development over conflict.
By Michelle Ndaga
