President William Ruto has called an emergency meeting with key security officials in the state house today, Saturday, March 30, 2024, to address the escalating security issues in the North Rift area. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kindiki Kithure, Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome and his deputies Douglas Kanja and Noor Gabow, and Principal Secretary for Interior Hon Raymond Omolo are among the meeting’s main security figures.

The meeting aims to address the persistent violence inflicted by bandits in the area, which has tragically resulted in loss of lives and mass displacements. Local leaders have reported a staggering toll of over 70 people killed in recent bandit attacks, underscoring the severity of the situation.

In a statement, President Ruto emphasized the gravity of the security crisis, stating, “We are committed to restoring peace and security in the North Rift region. The safety of our citizens is our top priority.”

The government’s renewed strategy to combat entrenched banditry includes the recent deployment of modern security equipment, such as Armoured Personnel Carriers, Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles, and Armoured Unmanned Aerial Vehicles. Operation Maliza Uhalifu, initiated in February 2023, demonstrates a collaborative effort between police forces, the military, and National Police Reservists to quell the violent activities of the bandits and restore peace to the region.