Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen recently disclosed that 21 people have been killed since January 2025 due to banditry-related incidents. This figure includes eight civilians, one police officer, and 12 suspects. Despite these deaths, the government has reported a significant decrease in banditry and related criminal activities compared to the same period in 2024.
According to a report from Murkomen’s ministry, the number of deaths linked to banditry has notably dropped from 58 in the first quarter of 2024 to 21 in the first quarter of 2025. This decrease has been accompanied by a reduction in cases of livestock theft, which fell from 263 to 167 during the same period, marking a positive shift in the country’s security situation.
In terms of livestock losses, 4,935 animals were stolen between January and March 2025, as opposed to 8,557 in the same period the previous year. This reduction indicates that the efforts by the government to curb criminal activities, particularly those related to banditry, have begun to bear fruit. Murkomen attributed this improvement to the collaboration between security officers and national police reservists, whose efforts have contributed significantly to the reduction in crime rates.
Despite the progress made, Murkomen highlighted several persistent challenges that continue to undermine the fight against banditry. One of the primary issues is the widespread availability of illicit small arms and light weapons, which are often used by bandits in their attacks. Additionally, the commercialization of banditry, fueled by the easy access to markets for stolen livestock, has further entrenched criminal activities in certain regions.
Murkomen also pointed to other factors that have complicated efforts to combat banditry, including political interference and incitement, which often exacerbate tensions in affected areas. Competition for water and pasture, particularly during times of drought, has led to increased clashes between communities, further fueling violence. Disputes over communal land boundaries and the lack of adequate road infrastructure connecting remote areas have also made it difficult for security forces to effectively track and apprehend criminals.
The government has committed to addressing these challenges through various measures. Murkomen emphasized the need for infrastructure development, including the construction of schools and improvement of roads, to support both security operations and community development. In addition, he assured that security officers would be provided with better equipment and resources to tackle these issues more effectively.
Murkomen also urged Kenyans to work closely with security forces to ensure the country remains safe, calling on the public to avoid political incitement and revenge, which have historically contributed to violence and instability. He urged political leaders to refrain from using national security concerns for political gain, stressing that such actions undermine efforts to create a peaceful and secure environment for all citizens.
While there is still much work to be done, the decrease in banditry and livestock theft is a positive sign of progress. With continued collaboration between the government, security forces, and local communities, there is hope that the situation will improve further in the coming months. However, addressing the underlying issues that fuel banditry will require a sustained and multifaceted approach to ensure long-term peace and stability.
