Security agencies have asked persons in possession of illegally acquired firearms in the North Rift to surrender them with immediate effect as the crackdown kicks off.
Rift Valley Regional Commissioner George Natembeya has said that the government has embarked on the exercise in a bid to curb increased cases of banditry in the regions.
“Operations targeting individuals who have not surrendered the weapons will begin this month,” Natembeya said.
Illegal firearms holders have been using them for committing crimes in different parts of the country including Samburu, Laikipia, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Turkana, Baringo and West Pokot counties.
Natembeya said that the operation will cut across different sections of the firm. He also said that those who will not surrender the illegal firearms will face dire consequences.
He observed that some of the bandits have now taken advantage of the amnesty the government gave to the holders of the firearms to commit a series of criminal activities across the country.