Leaders in West Pokot County have strongly criticized what they describe as excessive force by security agencies during the ongoing disarmament operation aimed at curbing banditry and illegal firearms in the region. The operation, part of the government’s wider security initiative in the North Rift, has sparked tension between local communities, political leaders, and security forces.
The government has intensified disarmament efforts in areas affected by banditry, including West Pokot, Turkana, and parts of the Kerio Valley. The campaign is meant to recover illegal firearms, restore peace, and end cattle rustling that has plagued the region for years. Recent reports show that residents in Pokot Central voluntarily surrendered several illegal weapons, including 12 AK-47 rifles, magazines, and ammunition, in support of the initiative.
However, local leaders claim that some security officers have used heavy-handed tactics while carrying out the operation. According to reports, several chiefs and National Police Reservists were allegedly assaulted during a meeting that had been convened to discuss security matters. Some leaders say the incident left several officials injured and receiving treatment in hospital.
West Pokot leaders have called on the national government to investigate the alleged incidents and ensure that the disarmament exercise respects human rights and community dignity. They argue that cooperation between residents and security agencies is essential for long-term peace, but that trust can be undermined if security operations are perceived as punitive.
Human rights groups have also raised concerns about the broader security campaign, citing allegations of destroyed homes, displacement of families, and disruptions to local livelihoods. These claims have intensified calls for transparency and accountability within the multi-agency operation deployed to combat banditry in northern Kenya.
espite the controversy, the government maintains that the disarmament program is necessary to stabilize the region and protect communities from armed criminals. Officials insist that security agencies are committed to restoring order while encouraging voluntary surrender of illegal weapons.
As the operation continues, leaders are urging dialogue between security agencies and local communities to ensure that peace efforts are effective, lawful, and supported by the people they aim to protect.