A National Police Reservist was fatally shot in a bandit attack in West Pokot County, raising fresh security concerns in the region. The incident occurred on Saturday, February 1, when Clement Lokwailap, a reservist on routine patrol, was ambushed in the Apolo area of Kapenguria.
According to police reports, Lokwailap sustained a fatal gunshot wound to the stomach. Despite efforts to save his life, he succumbed to his injuries upon arrival at Ortum Missionary Hospital. His body was later transferred to Cheranganyi Nursing Home Mortuary, where a postmortem examination is expected to be conducted.
The assailants made away with Lokwailap’s G3 rifle and two magazines of unknown ammunition capacity, escalating fears of further attacks in the region. Authorities have since intensified patrols in a bid to recover the stolen weapon and curb the resurgence of banditry, which had subsided in the past year.
Security agencies have mobilized additional resources to counter banditry in the North Rift. The government’s ongoing security operation, Maliza Uhalifu North Rift, has significantly reduced cattle rustling and illegal firearm possession in the region. Since its launch in February 2023, the operation has led to a 62% decline in livestock theft, with stolen cattle figures dropping from 63,054 to 23,668. Additionally, 172 illegal firearms have been recovered, and 250 suspects, including 14 political leaders, have been arrested and prosecuted.
The operation targets nine counties, including West Pokot, Baringo, Turkana, Samburu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Marsabit, Laikipia, Isiolo, and Meru. The government has designated hot spot areas as “Disturbed” and “Dangerous” to facilitate coordinated interventions by the National Police Service (NPS) and Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).
To strengthen local security, the government has restructured the National Police Reservists (NPR). In 2023, 1,702 reservists were recruited and trained across several counties, with an additional 400 re-armed in Elgeyo Marakwet and Isiolo to bolster security operations.
Further, the government gazetted 126 new administrative units across multiple counties to enhance governance and improve service delivery. This initiative is expected to streamline security operations and resource allocation in affected areas.
Beyond security efforts, KDF has played a pivotal role in community reconstruction. At least 26 schools have reopened, enabling 4,000 children to resume education. Renovations in 21 schools, particularly in Baringo County, mark a significant step toward restoring normalcy.
As security operations continue, authorities urge communities to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement to ensure sustainable peace in the North Rift.
