Interior Cabinet Secretary, Fred Matiang'i has announced the beginning of a ruthless security operation in Laikipia, aimed at curbing the ongoing skirmishes.
Speaking to residents on Friday, September 10, Matiang'i revealed that the government has started training a special security unit, which will pitch camp in the troubled Laikipia area.
The unit's main aim will be to flash out the bandits, who have proved to be a headache to the security of the residents and their property.
He announced that the new unit will work in collaboration with the Administration Police Service (APS) under the leadership of Deputy Inspector General of the unit, Noor Gabow.
He insisted that the operation will be ruthless and will start every day at the announced curfew hours from 6 pm till calmness is restored.
The CS further announced that the National Police Reservists (NPRs) will be roped in the operation, which will be mainly carried out during the stated curfew hours.
Interior Cabinet Secretary added that he will also join part of the operation by making regular helicopter surveillance in the area.
He also conveyed a message from President Uhuru Kenyatta, assuring the residents that the security forces are under clear instructions to pitch camp in the area till peace is restored.
Matiang'i announced that the Ol-Moran, Sipili, and Ol-Ng'arua areas in Laikipia will be merged to become one district zone called Kirima District that will be manned by the special commando forces.
Sounding a warning to the residents, he told them at wherever curfew hours find the residence they should sleep there and anybody found outside during the curfew hours will be considered as a bandit.
"The security operation in this area is unique. You will not have a chance to explain yourself when found outside past the 6 pm curfew," Matiang'i stated.
He maintained that the operation will also target to establish individuals sponsoring the clashes in the area that have so far seen hundreds displaced.
To give hope to the affected residents, the CS oversaw the distribution of food items and relief materials to the families whose houses had been torched just hours before he landed in the troubled.
He also announced the deployment of surveyors to Laikipia to expedite titling process and review and further recommend action on lapsed leases or those about to.
Schools will reopen beginning Monday next week instructing the police to provide security to guarantee learning.
