Security agencies in Baringo and Elgeyo Marakwet counties have successfully received two illegal firearms voluntarily surrendered by residents, marking a significant step forward in the ongoing disarmament and peacebuilding initiatives in Kenya’s North Rift region. The voluntary surrender occurred on October 3, 2025, and was part of a broader effort to reduce the circulation of illegal firearms and restore peace to the area.
The firearms were handed over in separate incidents in Tiaty Central, Baringo County, and Marakwet East, Elgeyo Marakwet County. In Baringo, the firearm was surrendered through the local administration, where it was secured by the sub-county security team. This was part of the ongoing recovery efforts under Operation Rudisha Bunduki, a government initiative aimed at reclaiming illegal firearms from the public to improve security.
Similarly, in Elgeyo Marakwet, residents voluntarily surrendered a firearm and an empty magazine to the authorities. These actions reflect an increasing level of trust between the community and law enforcement agencies, as well as growing support for the government’s peacebuilding efforts in the North Rift.
The recovery of these weapons highlights the successful collaboration between local leaders, elders, and residents in promoting security in the region. The National Police Service (NPS) praised the efforts of community leaders, who have been instrumental in encouraging the surrender of firearms. The continued participation of residents in these peacebuilding initiatives is seen as crucial for long-term stability in the region, which has been plagued by intercommunal violence fueled by the widespread possession of illegal weapons.
Local authorities have urged the public to continue supporting the disarmament process by sharing any information that could lead to the recovery of remaining illegal firearms. Through the use of anonymous reporting channels, authorities are hopeful that they can continue to make strides in reducing the influence of illicit weapons and promoting a peaceful coexistence in the North Rift.
The voluntary surrender of firearms is considered a key step toward achieving lasting peace in the region, and it is hoped that similar actions will continue in the coming months, strengthening the cooperation between security agencies and the local population. The success of these efforts relies heavily on the sustained involvement of the public and local leadership in addressing the issue of illegal weapons.
