President William Ruto has called on residents of West Pokot County to immediately hand over all illegal firearms to local bishops or the police, warning that anyone found in possession of unauthorised weapons will face strict government action.
Speaking during an interdenominational service in Chesombur on January 4, 2026, President Ruto stressed that the era of civilians carrying guns under the guise of protecting livestock must end. He emphasised that firearms are the sole responsibility of the state and trained security personnel.
“Kila mtu mwenye ako na bunduki na wewe si polisi, harakisha, lete bunduki patia kwa bishop ama polisi. Usipofanya hivyo, we are going to come for you. Tukikuja kuchukua hiyo bunduki, utakipata. Bunduki ni kitu ya kulinda wananchi ikitumiwa na askari,” Ruto said.
The Head of State further warned that security agencies will carry out operations to recover illegal firearms from civilians, noting that defiance of the directive will attract the full force of the law. He dismissed the practice where some residents carry guns while herding livestock, describing it as a source of insecurity and lawlessness.
“Kuna watu wanajifanya ati wanachunga ng’ombe na bunduki. Hakuna ng’ombe itachungwa na bunduki. Tafuta fimbo, kata miti, uchunge ng’ombe yako. Bunduki ni mali ya serikali na askari. Tumeelewana?” he remarked.
Linking Firearms to Cattle Rustling
President Ruto linked the widespread possession of illegal firearms to cattle rustling, calling the practice backward and destructive to communities, causing poverty, suffering, and loss of life. He contrasted the criminal activity with legitimate economic development.
“Niliwaeleza kwamba Kenya ile ingine watu wanafanya biashara kwa stock exchange, na kuna tofauti kubwa sana kati ya stock exchange na stock theft ya ujinga, ya kuletea sisi maafa, umaskini na hasara,” he said.
The President highlighted that government security operations and community engagement initiatives in West Pokot and neighbouring counties have intensified to combat banditry and cattle rustling, noting that the measures are already producing results.
“Mimi nafurahi sasa sehemu hii mambo ya stock theft imesha,” Ruto said, expressing satisfaction with the progress.
He concluded by thanking residents for their cooperation with security agencies and local leaders, emphasizing that lasting peace is essential for development, investment, and service delivery.
“We thank God today we have peace in these regions,” he stated.
