Police officers in Elgeyo Marakwet have recovered two illegal AK-47 rifles following a voluntary surrender by residents in Tot, a move hailed as a positive step towards restoring peace and security in the region.
The firearms were handed over on Saturday by two residents of Kibisioi village in Olot Sub-County. One of the rifles, which was fitted with a retractable butt, came loaded with 12 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition. The second rifle had a wooden butt and an empty magazine.
Authorities confirmed that the recovered weapons have since been secured and placed under safe custody pending further administrative action. The surrender has been described as a critical demonstration of community cooperation in the fight against insecurity and the circulation of illicit weapons.
The voluntary disarmament comes at a time when security agencies have been intensifying efforts to reduce armed violence in parts of Elgeyo Marakwet and surrounding counties. These areas have in the past witnessed clashes and banditry, often fueled by the proliferation of illegal firearms.
The police emphasized that every recovered weapon contributes to the broader agenda of enhancing safety and rebuilding trust among communities. They further noted that voluntary disarmament helps avoid confrontations between law enforcement and residents, ensuring that the path toward peace is achieved collaboratively rather than through force.
Community leaders and security stakeholders have repeatedly urged residents to cooperate in eliminating illegal firearms, warning that their circulation not only fuels violence but also undermines long-term development. The latest recovery is therefore seen as a symbolic act of goodwill, signaling that local communities are increasingly willing to support peace initiatives.
Security experts highlight that disarmament programs work best when communities feel included in decision-making processes and are assured of safety once they surrender weapons. The gesture from Kibisioi residents is expected to encourage others in possession of illegal arms to come forward.
The recovered rifles will now undergo formal documentation before being disposed of according to national security protocols. Authorities reiterated their commitment to maintaining close collaboration with the public to achieve lasting peace and security in the region.
The incident underscores the importance of community-led peace efforts in addressing insecurity. With the continued partnership between residents and law enforcement, Elgeyo Marakwet moves closer to stability, paving the way for social and economic progress.
