Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has ordered a comprehensive vetting exercise for all National Police Reservists (NPRs) serving in the troubled Kerio Valley region. The move, announced during a high-level security meeting at Chesongoch Catholic Church Centre, aims to curb escalating insecurity caused by rampant cattle rustling and rising criminal activity.
Murkomen emphasized that only vetted and qualified NPRs would be retrained and allowed to continue serving. In a major policy shift, he directed that all NPRs will now fall under the direct command of the Officer Commanding Police Station (OCS), ensuring greater accountability and coordination in security operations.
“Some of the reservists have been involved in criminal activities. We are already in the process of replacing them,” Murkomen noted, underscoring the need for a disciplined and professional force. To bolster the NPRs’ effectiveness, the government will establish dedicated NPR camps in Baringo, West Pokot, and Elgeyo Marakwet counties.
In a bid to improve the welfare of NPRs, Murkomen announced that all reservists would be registered under the Social Health Authority (SHA), and their families prioritized in government bursary programs. Chiefs in volatile areas will now be eligible to apply for firearm licenses, and their welfare and career progression will be reviewed. Disciplinary issues among chiefs will be addressed through legal and administrative processes, and promotions will be merit-based through the Public Service Commission.
The CS also revealed that the new Kerio Valley Sub-County has been operationalised, with a Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) already in office and equipped with vehicles. Plans are underway to construct sub-county offices in Chesongoch in the upcoming financial year.
Murkomen warned against community members sabotaging peace efforts, including those blocking roads during operations. “We are scaling up operations to deal with individuals undermining security,” he said.
He called on local leaders and residents to cooperate with security agencies in restoring peace. The meeting was attended by regional, county, and local security teams who pledged support for the new measures aimed at stabilizing the region.
