Security agencies in Tot, Elgeyo Marakwet County, have received a major boost in the fight against insecurity after residents voluntarily surrendered 41 illegal firearms along with several rounds of ammunition. The handover marks a significant step in ongoing disarmament campaigns that seek to restore lasting peace and stability in the volatile region.
According to authorities, the surrender demonstrates a growing level of trust and cooperation between communities and security agencies. Local leaders and administrators have been urging residents to abandon illegal weapon possession, which has long been associated with banditry, cattle rustling, and inter-community clashes in the North Rift region. By handing over the firearms, residents have shown readiness to embrace peace and reject a culture of violence that has destabilized livelihoods for years.
The campaign encourages anyone still holding illegal firearms to follow the example and surrender them voluntarily. Security agencies have emphasized that giving up weapons not only reduces insecurity but also prevents individuals from facing possible prosecution for unlawful possession. Residents are further encouraged to report suspicious activities or individuals involved in crime through police stations, administrative offices, or confidential reporting channels provided by law enforcement agencies.
This disarmament milestone comes only days after a nationwide directive reinforced the government’s stance on firearm regulation. A ban on the possession of firearms was recently imposed in 13 specific areas of Marsabit County, which had been declared disturbed and dangerous. Residents in those zones were instructed to surrender their weapons for safe custody until the security situation improves. The arrangement assures residents that their firearms will be returned once peace is restored, underscoring the government’s commitment to both security and fairness.
The surrender of weapons in Elgeyo Marakwet adds to similar initiatives across the Kerio Valley and neighbouring counties, where security forces are working tirelessly to end the cycle of violence. Leaders in the region have lauded community members who participated in the exercise, noting that sustainable development and prosperity can only thrive in a peaceful environment.
With more residents joining the campaign, hopes remain high that the disarmament drive will break the chain of violence and open the door for social and economic growth.
