CS Murkomen orders overhaul of police reservists in Kerio Valley

The government has taken new steps to tighten oversight of National Police Reservists (NPRs) in Kerio Valley, with Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen ordering a fresh vetting exercise for all reservists operating in the region.

Speaking during a high-level security meeting at Chesongoch Catholic Church Centre, Murkomen said that those who successfully undergo vetting will be retrained.

He explained that, moving forward, all NPRs will be placed under the direct supervision of Officers Commanding Police Stations (OCS) to improve coordination and accountability.

Murkomen criticized some NPR officers for engaging in criminal acts, noting that the government had already started replacing those involved in misconduct.

"We are creating proper camps for NPRs in Baringo, West Pokot, and Elgeyo/Marakwet," he said.

To enhance their welfare, the Cabinet Secretary said all NPRs will be registered with the Social Health Authority (SHA), giving them access to health benefits.

He also announced that the families of NPR officers will be prioritized when the government issues bursaries, supporting their children's education.

On matters of leadership, Murkomen said that chiefs serving in operational areas will now be allowed to apply for firearm licenses to better carry out their duties.

"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 emphasized that chiefs would be promoted based on merit through the Public Service Commission, helping to professionalize local administration.

Murkomen also highlighted key developments in administration in the region.

He said the newly created Kerio Valley Sub-County is now operational, with the Deputy County Commissioner already provided with vehicles.

Additional officers, including an Officer Commanding Police Division (OCPD), will soon be posted to the area.

Looking ahead, Murkomen announced that the government would construct sub-county offices in Chesongoch in the next financial year.

He warned of new security challenges in Loruk and Kerio regions, such as land disputes and road robberies, promising firm action against criminals.

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

The CS urged the community to work closely with security officers, warning against any acts that could hinder operations.

"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," he stated.

The meeting drew participation from security teams at the regional, county, sub-county, and ward levels, signaling a renewed focus on strengthening peace and security in Kerio Valley.