The government has intensified efforts to tackle the illegal distribution of teargas canisters and ammunition, Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen announced on Thursday, February 19, 2026, in Nanyuki, Laikipia County.
The CS revealed that authorities are investigating both civilians and police officers suspected of facilitating unlawful access to these dangerous items.
Murkomen said the move comes after a series of incidents where political events were disrupted by teargas, although the National Police Service has denied involvement.
He emphasized that those found guilty of illegally supplying or possessing such equipment will face strict legal action.
“The Inspector General of Police is investigating whether some civilians are in possession of teargas canisters or whether there are police officers colluding with civilians to unlawfully supply them with the equipment,” Murkomen said.
He warned that criminals have managed to obtain teargas, firearms, and other dangerous ammunition through fraudulent means, raising serious concerns about public safety.
“The same way criminals have firearms, we have witnessed instances where teargas has ended up in the wrong hands,” he added.
The CS highlighted ongoing security operations in Isiolo, Samburu, and Laikipia Counties, which have shown notable progress just two weeks into the campaign. He noted the recovery of stolen livestock and firearms as a sign of early success.
“From the Isiolo side alone, we have recovered nearly 28 firearms, and I am pleased to report that we are also making significant recoveries of stolen livestock,” Murkomen said.
He assured that the operations will continue until the region is cleared of banditry and lasting peace is restored. The CS also offered condolences to the family of a teacher killed during an attack in Isiolo, stressing that the death reflects a recurring pattern of criminal retaliation against security operations.
“I send my sincere condolences to the family and friends of the teacher. We will stand with them during this difficult time,” Murkomen said.
Drawing lessons from past interventions in Elgeyo-Marakwet County, where bandits targeted non-locals, including a priest, Murkomen said similar patterns are emerging in Isiolo. He promised to intensify efforts to ensure justice for the teacher and other victims of banditry.
“This is not a new script. In Elgeyo-Marakwet County, when we carried out a similar operation, bandits went on the rampage targeting non-locals, including a priest. The same pattern is emerging in Isiolo County. We are going to intensify operations in Isiolo to ensure that the blood of the teacher does not go in vain,” he said.
