President William Ruto has issued a firm directive ordering residents of Angata Barikoi in Trans Mara to surrender all illegal firearms to the police, as the government intensifies efforts to end deadly violence along the Narok border that has left several people dead and displaced more than 1,800 others.
Speaking on Monday, December 22, during the Baringo Cultural Festival and the Kimalel Goat Auction, President Ruto warned that his administration would no longer tolerate armed lawlessness or insecurity in any part of the country. He said individuals found in possession of illegal firearms would face decisive action by security agencies.
“These people have to return the guns to the police. If they don’t, they will face it,” the President said. “We must stop criminals, terrorists, and all others infringing on the peace and security of other citizens. And we are not begging.”
The President’s remarks came amid growing pressure from leaders in the region, including Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, who called for the deployment of the Kenya Defence Forces to help restore order. Cheruiyot said armed groups were exploiting long-standing land boundary disputes between the Kipsigis and Maasai communities to carry out attacks.
In response to the escalating violence, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen declared Trans Mara West and Trans Mara South constituencies security-disturbed and dangerous areas for a period of 30 days. The declaration covers several hotspots, including Kilgoris, Angata Barikoi, Nkararu, Ololoma, and Lolgorian town.
Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew from 6.00 pm to 6.00 am and issued a 72-hour ultimatum for the surrender of illegal firearms, warning of severe consequences for those who fail to comply.
The Kenya Red Cross Society reported that at least seven people have been killed in the clashes, with women, children, and persons with disabilities among the most affected. More than 120 homes and food stores have been destroyed, worsening the humanitarian situation.
President Ruto said the government would deploy special security operations similar to those used in Baringo to restore peace and ensure long-term stability in Trans Mara.
