Following Multi-agency security operations in Laikipia North Sub County to flush out bandits, authorities have recovered a gun believed to have been used to commit crimes in the area.
Laikipia County Commissioner Joseph Kanyiri confirmed the incident, revealing the AK47 rifle, magazine pouch, and two rounds of ammunition were recovered in the Doldol area by police.
“We acknowledge receipt of a recovered firearm, an AK47, a magazine, and two rounds of ammunition. We are happy this was surrendered through the efforts of the security team and elders. We want to deeply thank them,” confirmed Kanyiri.
Kanyiri said there could be more firearms in the hands of civilians in Laikipia North and appealed to them to surrender voluntarily before the expiry of the amnesty as the security operations continue.
“We believe there are many firearms being held illegally by civilians and our request is that they be surrendered to the government. There is an amnesty for those who surrender voluntarily,” said the county commissioner.
He warned that, with the ongoing sting security operation and particularly in the bandit-infested Mukogodo forest, they were bound to unearth more guns and those found with them would face charges in court.
“For those who we already know, we will soon be coming for you and recovering the firearms. After that, there will be a court action for possessing firearms illegally,” warned Kanyiri.
Kanyiri said that the security operations, which started a week ago to seek to restore peace in Laikipia, were being conducted in a professional and humane manner without hurting residents.
The county commissioner called on residents to cooperate with security agencies conducting operations aimed at eradicating bandits who hide in the Mukogodo forest after committing heinous acts.
Recently, local leaders appealed to the government to increase the number of National Police Reservists from the current 360 to 800 in a bid to heighten security in Laikipia.
Meanwhile, ongoing security operations are being carried out in other areas of West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo, and Samburu counties that were declared disturbed and dangerous zones affected by insecurity.
By Muturi Mwangi
