Interior PS Omollo warns leaders against using goons to fuel violence

Speaking in Lodwar, Turkana County, Omollo stated that the State will not tolerate lawlessness, warning that both perpetrators and their enablers will face the full force of the law.

“Criminal gangs and political goonism are a national challenge and will not be tolerated. Any individual or leader who engages in or facilitates such acts will be held accountable in accordance with the law,” he stated.

The PS noted that armed groups, banditry and cattle rustling continue to devastate pastoral communities, confirming that the Government has ramped up disarmament operations to curb the proliferation of illegal firearms.

“The ongoing disarmament operation is part of our broader security intervention to ensure that illegal firearms are removed from circulation and do not remain in the wrong hands,” he noted. 

He added that the mop-up exercise has already yielded significant recoveries and will continue until the threat is fully addressed.

“We have recorded significant recoveries of illegal firearms, and the operation will continue for as long as the threat persists,” he stated.

Addressing concerns from local leaders regarding the conduct of the operation, Omollo assured the public that the Government remains responsive while maintaining its focus on restoring security.

“We have engaged local leadership on concerns raised and will address them, but the objective remains clear, ensuring that firearms are not in the hands of criminals."

He also highlighted the importance of coordination between law enforcement agencies and the justice system to ensure accountability.

“Law enforcement agencies must act impartially, and the justice system must ensure that those apprehended are prosecuted based on evidence,” he stated.

The Principal Secretary spoke during the official launch of the Ateker Leaders Council – Kenya Chapter, a platform aimed at promoting peace, cooperation and development among Ateker communities across Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan and Ethiopia.

“Today, we have officially launched and operationalised the Ateker Leaders Council – Kenya Chapter to drive lasting solutions on peace, security and development,” he said.