The Deputy President has convened a high-level security meeting in Meru Town following renewed insecurity in the region, as the government intensifies efforts to curb the resurgence of banditry.
Speaking after a closed-door briefing with the Meru County Security and Intelligence Team, the Deputy President acknowledged that the current administration assumed office in 2022 amid both an economic and security crisis. At the time, terrorist attacks were rampant in parts of the North Eastern region and Lamu, while heavily armed bandits terrorized communities across the Kerio Valley and counties including Turkana, Samburu, Marsabit, Isiolo, and Meru.
He noted that significant progress has been made over the past three years, with most previously volatile regions experiencing relative calm for over two years. However, he expressed concern that banditry, which had earlier been suppressed in Meru, has resurfaced, with near-daily attacks, loss of lives, and widespread livestock theft.
In response, the government has directed security formations under the Kenya Police Service, supported by the Kenya Defence Forces, to launch what has been described as the most comprehensive security operation in the country’s history. The operation aims to deter further attacks, neutralize criminal networks, recover stolen livestock, and mop up illegal firearms.
The targeted areas include the vast and rugged terrains of Mukogodo Forest in Laikipia, Kipsing, Ngare Mara and Milima Lebendera in Isiolo, as well as Lentana and Sereolipi in Samburu East. These regions are suspected to be hideouts for bandits and locations where stolen livestock is being kept.
The Deputy President revealed that additional elite security units have already been deployed, supported by new equipment and aerial surveillance. The multi-agency operation will be intelligence-led and conducted both on land and in the air, with an unprecedented number of special forces being mobilized.
Security personnel have been granted authority to use all lawful means necessary to neutralize threats targeting civilians and law enforcement officers.
The government has urged residents in affected areas to remain calm and cooperate fully with security agencies, especially as some regions may soon be declared disturbed and designated as operational zones.
The Deputy President emphasized that the government expects immediate results from the intensified crackdown, reaffirming its commitment to restoring lasting peace and security in Meru and other affected regions.