The National Police Service (NPS) has recovered 14 illegal firearms and 51 rounds of ammunition in Baringo and Turkana counties as part of ongoing security operations targeting illicit arms.
In a post on X on Monday, February 2, 2026, the National Police Service (NPS) said the recovery of the illegal firearms, achieved through intelligence-led operations, marked a significant step in the fight against banditry, cattle rustling, and other violent crimes that continue to threaten lives and livelihoods in northern Kenya.
“Through these intelligence-led operations, officers successfully recovered 14 rifles and 51 rounds of ammunition,” Police noted.
The NPS noted that officers worked in close coordination with other security agencies during the operations, which led to the seizure of several rifles believed to have been used in organised criminal activities across the two counties.
“The recovery of these weapons represents a critical step in disrupting banditry, cattle rustling, and other violent crimes that have long threatened the safety and livelihoods of local communities,” NPS said.
Police said the operation forms part of sustained efforts to dismantle criminal networks and curb the proliferation of illegal weapons.
Authorities also urged members of the public to cooperate with law enforcement by sharing information that could help in the recovery of illegal firearms or the prevention of criminal activity.
Illegal possession of firearms
The latest operation comes amid growing security concerns in parts of northern Kenya, where armed gangs and cattle rustlers have continued to target local communities in recent months.
This comes a few months after the Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, banned the possession of firearms in 13 designated areas within Marsabit County.
In a notice dated September 11, 2025, Kanja stated that the affected locations had already been declared as security-disturbed and dangerous by the Interior Security and National Administration Cabinet Secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen.
The listed areas include Hillo Gorgora, Hillo Orofa, Hillo Walkite, Hillo Tanzania, Hillo Irress Abamartille, Hillo Gootu, Hillo Tessum Qalicha, Hillo Karray, Hillo Hudda, Hillo Qoranjido, Hillo Irress Shindia, Hillo Rabaalee, and Hillo Godde Haroressa.
Residents in possession of firearms within these zones are required to surrender them to the nearest police station, post, camp, or national government administrative office.
