Government Declares Parts of Laikipia, Meru, And Isiolo Security-Disturbed

The government has officially designated several regions within Laikipia, Meru, and Isiolo counties as security-disturbed and dangerous areas. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen issued the declaration through a Special Issue of the Kenya Gazette on Thursday, March 26, 2026, following a surge in criminal activities and banditry in the northern and central belts.

The directive, which took effect at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, is slated to remain in force for an initial period of 30 days. According to the Gazette notice, the Cabinet Secretary maintains the authority to withdraw the order or extend its duration based on the evolving security situation on the ground.

Interior CS Murkomen stated that the move is intended to facilitate a major multi-agency security operation. The primary objective is to weed out perpetrators of recent criminal incidents and dismantle organized banditry networks that have destabilized the region. This operation also incorporates a comprehensive mop-up of illegal firearms, which authorities believe are the primary tools fueling livestock theft and community displacement.

The declaration was made under the powers conferred by Section 106 (1) of the National Police Service Act, 2011. Interior CS Murkomen confirmed that the decision followed extensive consultations with the National Security Council. This escalation comes shortly after the deployment of 400 additional police officers to reinforce existing units in the volatile zones.

Specific sub-counties and locations have been highlighted in the Gazette notice to guide the enforcement. In Laikipia County, the order covers parts of Laikipia North, specifically Mugogodo Forest, Sieku, Makuriani, and Doldol. These areas have a history of land-related tensions and cattle rustling.

In Meru County, the security operation focuses on Tigania East and Igembe North. Specific locations include Mlima Rasta, Mlima Lombolio, the Mworontoi Belt, and sections of the Nyambene Game Reserve. The Ngatho Dam area in Igembe North has also been singled out as a high-risk zone requiring immediate intervention.

Isiolo County sees several landmarks in Isiolo North Sub-county placed under the new security protocols. These include the Sarova Game Reserve, Lowarengishu Hills, Mutunyi Hills, and Loruku Hills. Security agencies are expected to intensify intelligence-led raids and patrols within these designated corridors.

Interior CS Murkomen emphasized that the government is committed to sustaining the crackdown until banditry is completely eradicated. The Interior Ministry noted that the proliferation of illicit weapons has long contributed to recurring violence, and this operation is part of a broader strategy to restore lasting peace and protect the livelihoods of the locals.

While the operation targets criminal elements, officials have indicated that measures are in place to coordinate the exercise professionally. The government previously warned that individuals involved in financing or inciting violence would be held accountable as part of the ongoing efforts to secure Northern Kenya.