Elgeyo Marakwet Residents Surrender 22 Illegal Firearms
In a significant breakthrough for peace efforts, residents of Elgeyo Marakwet County have voluntarily surrendered 22 illegal firearms to the authorities. The weapons were handed over during a security amnesty drive led by the National Police Service and local elders, aimed at mopping up illicit arms that have fueled decades of cattle rustling and banditry in the Kerio Valley region.
The surrendered arsenal included a mix of rifles and homemade guns, all of which were publicly displayed. The County Commissioner praised the residents for their courageous decision, stating that each firearm taken out of circulation represents lives saved and a step towards lasting peace. The ongoing amnesty program allows individuals to surrender weapons without facing prosecution.
This development is seen as a direct result of sustained community dialogue and confidence-building between security forces and local leaders. The government has urged other residents still holding illegal arms to follow suit before the amnesty window closes, after which a forceful disarmament operation will commence. The surrender of the 22 firearms is expected to significantly reduce the capacity for armed violence in the area.