Security forces on Tuesday gunned down four suspected bandits and recovered six rifles loaded with 527 bullets in Igembe, Meru County.
The suspects were ambushed during a coordinated multi-agency operation targeting a makeshift hideout used by the criminals in Kubisera village.
The raid was part of a wider security crackdown under Operation Maliza Uhalifu North Rift, which aims to flush out bandits from their hideouts in regions plagued by cattle rustling and violence.
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Safe Havens Still a Challenge
Authorities noted that poor infrastructure and limited mobile network coverage in the region have provided a haven for criminals, making operations more difficult. Despite the challenges, the government reiterated its commitment to ending insecurity in the region.
“We are allocating more resources for infrastructure and security equipment to support officers in these regions,” a senior official stated.
Background: Operation Maliza Uhalifu
Launched in February 2023, the operation targets rampant banditry and cattle theft across nine counties, including Baringo, Turkana, Samburu, Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, Marsabit, Laikipia, Isiolo, and Meru.
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Under this initiative, identified hotspots were labeled as “Disturbed” and “Dangerous,” prompting a combined deployment of the National Police Service (NPS) and the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).
File image: Some of the rifles recovered during a past operation in Meru County.
Despite progress, security personnel report recurring attacks by criminal gangs who regroup and resurface to carry out raids. However, the government insists that the mission to restore peace in the region remains unwavering.
