Security officers have seized 13 illegal firearms in Baringo and Elgeyo Marakwet counties following a coordinated operation aimed at reducing armed violence in regions affected by banditry.
The National Police Service said the firearms were recovered during intelligence-led operations carried out on January 30, 2026. Seven rifles were recovered in Baringo County, while six were seized in Elgeyo Marakwet County. Officers also recovered 10 magazines and 22 rounds of ammunition.
According to the police, the operation focused on areas that have previously recorded security incidents and the presence of armed groups. The service said the targeted approach was meant to limit the movement of illegal weapons and weaken criminal activity.
In a statement, the National Police Service said the seizures “disrupt criminal networks, deter violent crime, and help rebuild confidence among affected communities.”
“Each weapon removed from illegal possession represents a reduced threat,” the statement added.
Authorities said the recoveries show the growing impact of cooperation between security agencies, local leaders, and residents. They noted that information shared by communities continues to play a major role in identifying illegal arms and preventing attacks.
The police said peace in the region depends on removing weapons from circulation and building trust between citizens and security agencies. They added that dialogue and cooperation are key to protecting lives and property in areas prone to violence.
The operation is part of ongoing peaceful disarmament efforts being carried out by the National Police Service. These efforts are meant to shield communities exposed to violent crime and improve security in regions that have experienced repeated attacks.
The service urged residents to continue supporting security operations by sharing information, saying public cooperation is essential to ensuring recovered weapons do not return to criminal hands.
“These operations are a critical step in restoring peace and protecting communities affected by banditry,” the service said.
The police said they will sustain high-intensity operations across Baringo and Elgeyo Marakwet counties, with a strong focus on intelligence gathering and targeted actions. Authorities believe consistent efforts, combined with community engagement, will help stabilise the region and restore normalcy.
The latest recoveries come shortly after another disarmament exercise in the area. On January 23, the National Police Service reported that two firearms and 10 rounds of ammunition were surrendered at the Tot police station in the Kerio Valley.
The police said the handover “was conducted peacefully and without incident, underscoring the growing trust and cooperation between local communities and security agencies.”
Authorities said patrols and intelligence-based operations will continue as part of broader engagement with residents aimed at restoring lasting peace.
The National Police Service said the recovery of the 13 firearms reflects its continued commitment to improving public safety and reducing the risks posed by illegal weapons, in line with national security efforts.
