Murkomen orders fresh vetting of police reservists in Kerio Valley

Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen speaking in Kerio Valley during a security meeting

Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has ordered fresh vetting for all National Police Reservists (NPSs) serving in the Kerio Valley region.

Addressing a security meeting in the area, the CS noted those who pass the test will be retrained in service.

He also announced a new policy shift, stating NPRs will now be under the direct command of the Officer Commanding Police Stations (OCS).

The CS took issue with NPR officers engaging in criminal acts, saying the process to replace them has kicked off.

“We are creating proper camps for NPRs in Baringo, West Pokot, and Elgeyo/Marakwet,” stated Murkomen.

In terms of welfare, Murkomen confirmed that all NPRs will be registered in the Social Health Authority (SHA) and their families given priority in the issuance of bursaries by the government.

The CS revealed that chiefs in operational areas will be licensed to possess firearms on application.

“Chiefs welfare and career progression will be re-looked. Chiefs with disciplinary issues will be interdicted and taken through the legal framework,” said the CS.

He said through the Public Service Commission, chiefs will be promoted based on merit.

He noted that the government has operationalised the new Kerio Valley Sub-County, the Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) which has been handed vehicles. He said the OCPD and other officials will be posted in the station soon.

“We will build sub-county offices in Chesongoch in the next financial year. Land disputes and road robberies is an emerging security issues in the Loruk and Kerio regions; we will take decisive action against perpetrators,” said the CS.

Murkomen called on the local community and leadership to work with security personnel to maintain peace in the region.

“It's sad that some people block roads during security operations. We have constructed security roads in the region; some are under construction, and more will be constructed soon. We have known individuals in the community who are sabotaging peace, we're upscaling operations to catch up with them.”

The meeting, which took place at Chesongoch Catholic Church Centre, brought together regional, county, sub-county, and ward security teams.