SECURITY OPERATION: ILLEGAL FIREARMS, DRUGS, AND STOLEN LIVESTOCK SEIZED
The ongoing multi-agency security operation in Isiolo County has recorded notable progress, with law enforcement authorities successfully recovering illegal firearms, drugs, and stolen livestock over the weekend. Several suspects were also apprehended and are set to face charges in court this week. These latest developments mark a significant step forward in the efforts to combat criminal activities in the region.
During a press briefing at the Isiolo Police Headquarters, County Commissioner David Kiprop and County Police Commander Isaac Sang shared key updates on the operation. According to Kiprop, the authorities have confiscated seven firearms, including M16 and AK-47 rifles, along with 105 rounds of ammunition and 13 assorted magazines. In addition, the police recovered 107 stolen shoats (sheep and goats) that had been taken from local pastoralists.
Furthermore, the security forces discovered a garden of freshly growing cannabis sativa plants in Kambi Garba village, located on the outskirts of Isiolo town. More cannabis, both in its raw and processed forms, was seized in the nearby Kambi ya Juu village. These recoveries highlight the diverse scope of criminal activities being tackled as part of the operation, which has been targeting illegal firearms possession, drug trafficking, and livestock theft.
Kiprop confirmed that several suspects are currently in police custody in connection with the recovered items, underscoring the importance of community cooperation in the success of the operation. “The progress we have made so far is significant, and we remain determined to achieve even more. We are deeply grateful to the residents of Isiolo for their continued support and for providing crucial information,” Kiprop said during the briefing.
The Commissioner further revealed that four suspects are being held in connection with illegal firearms, and he emphasized the urgency of eliminating the widespread illegal weaponry that has been contributing to rising insecurity in the county. “Since Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen’s visit to Isiolo last week to launch the operation, we have seen tangible progress. Our focus remains on restoring peace and security across all areas of Isiolo County,” Kiprop added. “We need the cooperation of all leaders, residents, and stakeholders to ensure the success of this operation.”
Isiolo Police Commander Isaac Sang also addressed the importance of the public’s involvement in the ongoing operation. He confirmed that law enforcement had recovered a range of dangerous weapons, including G3 rifles and the aforementioned M16 and AK-47s, alongside their corresponding ammunition and magazines. Sang highlighted that some of these firearms are not typically found in Kenya, suggesting that international arms dealers might be involved in trafficking them into the country.
“The presence of these illegal firearms in our communities is a serious concern, and I want to urge parents to avoid purchasing these weapons for their children, as they have caused considerable harm in other regions,” Sang said. He also drew attention to the growing issue of drug abuse, particularly among the youth in Isiolo. “The drugs we have confiscated are part of a larger problem, and we are committed to tackling this head-on.”
Sang reiterated that the operation is targeted at criminals and has no intention of disrupting the lives of law-abiding citizens. “We are focused on eliminating illegal activities and ensuring the safety of all residents. Our operation is specifically designed to protect the people of Isiolo from crime,” he added.
The authorities have called for continued collaboration from all sectors of the community as they work toward restoring lasting peace and security in Isiolo County. As the operation progresses, law enforcement officials remain committed to their goal of ridding the region of criminal activities that threaten the well-being of its residents.
