A 40-year-old man suspected of involvement in a spate of robberies has been arrested in Lokichar township, Turkana County. The arrest is part of an ongoing crackdown on rising insecurity and violent crimes in the area. Authorities believe the suspect is linked to a series of robbery with violence incidents that have plagued the region in recent weeks.
The arrest was made following a tip-off from members of the public. Acting swiftly on the information, a team of officers from Lokichar Police Station launched an operation that resulted in the suspect’s apprehension. During initial questioning, the man led the officers to his residence in Kapese village, where a thorough search was conducted.
At the residence, police recovered an AK-47 rifle, an AK-47 magazine, and seven rounds of 7.62 x 39mm ammunition. In addition to the firearm, the officers found several items believed to be stolen property. These included multiple motorcycle frames, a car wash pressure pump, a solar inverter, and a white Tata double cab vehicle. Authorities are investigating the origin of these items and whether they are connected to other reported thefts in the area.
The suspect is expected to be formally charged with robbery with violence as investigations continue. Police are working to determine the full extent of his involvement in criminal activities in the region.
Turkana County has experienced a rise in violent crimes, including armed robberies, prompting intensified police operations to restore order. These operations have focused on high-risk areas and are supported by intelligence from local residents.
In a separate incident in Samburu County, gunmen raided villages in the Suguta Marmar area, making away with 41 goats. The gang, reported to have consisted of three armed men, fired shots in the air at the Longewan cattle dip field before escaping with the stolen livestock. Despite a swift response and a search by local security teams, no arrests or recoveries were made.
Authorities have since launched a manhunt for the perpetrators, with teams from the Anti-Stock Theft Unit and other security agencies leading the pursuit. The attack has caused concern among locals, who fear a resurgence of livestock theft in the region.
The ongoing insecurity in northern Kenya has led to the rollout of Operation Maliza Uhalifu (OMU) phase two, a government-led initiative aimed at tackling criminal activities and restoring peace in the North Rift region. The new phase of the operation will cover Samburu, Laikipia, Isiolo, and parts of Meru counties.
The command centre for OMU Two is based in Kirimon, Laikipia County. It will coordinate operations involving various security agencies, including the National Police Service and the Kenya Defence Forces. The initiative also involves collaboration with National Government Administration Officers, National Police Reservists, and local rangers.
The first command centre under OMU was established in Chemolingot, Tiaty, Baringo County. It plays a vital role in countering banditry and maintaining law and order in the area.
Authorities have emphasized the importance of incorporating modern technology in security operations. Plans are underway to acquire advanced surveillance and operational equipment to improve response times and enhance coordination in affected areas.
These efforts underscore the government’s commitment to ending banditry, curbing armed crime, and restoring stability in the volatile North Rift region.
