KAPENGURIA, Kenya — The Kenyan government has pledged to intensify its crackdown on powerful individuals in Kerio Valley suspected of supplying arms to local populations.
Speaking in Kapenguria town during the 16th edition of the Jukwaa la Usalama country tours, Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen issued a stern warning to those fueling insecurity in the region through weapon smuggling.
The CS highlighted that these suspects are exploiting Kenya’s porous international borders to illicitly bring in guns and ammunition. He announced that these individuals are currently under active investigation and vowed that no one would be spared, regardless of their social standing.
“We have a challenge with our porous borders both locally and with neighbouring nations. The small routes are accessed by criminals, and this leads to the proliferation of small arms,” noted the CS.
In a particular warning, Murkomen directly addressed individuals who appear as upright citizens but are secretly engaged in illegal arms trade.
“Those hiding in suits, we are monitoring you. You are on our radar and very soon you will be arrested,“ said Murkomen.
Speaking to journalists in Kapenguria after a closed-door security briefing on the security status in West Pokot county at the county commissioner’s office, the CS reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace in the region. He emphasized that authorities would not tolerate any individuals who jeopardize these critical efforts.
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“These criminals need to behave. Mtu asijfanye clever by buying guns to sell to our young people to make money” said the CS.
He added, “The consequences will be extremely dire. It’s like the saying, ‘when you rattle a snake…’ The National Police Service and other relevant agencies are investigating the suspects. We will soon be picking people from their homes.“
In a related concern, the CS also addressed the rampant smuggling of contraband goods into the country. He noted the adverse effects on citizens and the economy: “People are buying substandard goods and not paying taxes. Contraband goods from neighbouring countries are also hurting our people, especially the youth. Drugs, cheap alcohol are packed and sold to unsuspecting clients. Many young people are having their lives wasted through imports and other manufactured goods.”
