Government Intensifies Security Operations in Kerio Valley, Orders Surrender of Illegal Firearms - January 2026

President William Ruto announced a significant peace achievement in the Kerio Valley, declaring the area ready for development after years of banditry. He issued a stern warning to individuals possessing illegal firearms, ordering them to surrender the weapons to law enforcement or religious leaders. Separately, Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen announced that the government is intensifying efforts to combat banditry in the Kerio Valley. Murkomen stated that a coordinated multi-agency security approach is being implemented to restore peace in the region.