Five individuals from Sagat, Kasemoi, and Marich sub-locations in Tot Division, Kerio Valley Sub-County, Elgeyo Marakwet County, have voluntarily surrendered five illegal AK-47 assault rifles to security agencies.
The handover, which took place on September 15, 2025, is part of ongoing disarmament initiatives aimed at restoring peace and security in the region, which has long been affected by cattle rustling and armed banditry.
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the recovered weapons include three AK-47 rifles, each with an empty magazine, one AK-47 rifle loaded with eight rounds of ammunition, and another with five rounds.
This information was shared through the DCI account on X.
“The cache included three AK-47 rifles, each with an empty magazine; one AK-47 rifle with a magazine containing eight rounds of ammunition; and another AK-47 rifle with a magazine containing five rounds of ammunition,” the DCI stated.
The surrendered firearms have been secured by the authorities and are currently undergoing standard administrative procedures.
The National Police Service has commended the individuals for taking this courageous step, acknowledging the critical role of community cooperation and local leadership in fostering long-term peace and stability in Kerio Valley.
This development follows a recent incident in which a well-known bandit voluntarily turned himself in to the police and joined the church in the same region.
Authorities view these actions as significant progress in encouraging peaceful coexistence in an area that has frequently experienced inter-community violence.
Kerio Valley Police Commander Zablon Okoyo confirmed the latest surrender, describing it as a major step forward in promoting peace and disarmament in the historically volatile area.
Security agencies are continuing to urge members of the public to surrender any illegal weapons and provide information that could assist in disarmament operations and crime prevention throughout the region.
“Members of the public are encouraged to emulate this gesture by surrendering any illegal arms in their possession and by sharing information that may assist in disarmament and crime prevention,” the DCI stated.
