President William Ruto has called on residents in Narok County involved in armed clashes to surrender their firearms, warning of strict consequences for noncompliance.
The directive came amid escalating violence in Angata Barikoi, Trans Mara, where recent skirmishes have claimed at least seven lives.
Speaking during the Baringo Cultural Festival and the Kimalel Goat Auction on Monday, December 22, Ruto stressed the need to restore peace.
“These people have to return the guns to the police. If they don't, they will face it,” he declared. “We must stop criminals, terrorists, and all others infringing on the peace and security of citizens. And we are not begging.”
The President’s remarks followed a plea from Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, who requested the deployment of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) to the affected areas.
“I have heard that there are special forces who deal with bandits; the same bandits who were in Baringo have now gone to Angata Barikoi. Please send the special forces to deal with the bandits there,” Cheruiyot said.
The request came hours after Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen issued a special gazette declaring Trans Mara West and Trans Mara South constituencies as security-disturbed areas for 30 days.
Areas listed include Kilgoris, Ang’ata Barikoi, Lolgorian town, Mogondo, Keyian, Kirindon, Olderkesi, Nkararo, and Kapsasian.
Authorities have stepped up security in the affected regions, with additional officers deployed to prevent further violence and protect residents.
Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat announced a dusk-to-dawn curfew in the disturbed areas.
The ongoing clashes have left numerous homes destroyed—more than 120 houses torched—displacing many families.
According to the Kenya Red Cross Society, children, women, and persons with disabilities have been the most affected, with food stores also destroyed by fire.
In a bid to curb the unrest, police in Trans Mara have arrested a local Member of County Assembly (MCA) and another individual over their alleged involvement in the Ang’ata Barikoi clashes, while two other suspects remain at large.
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