The ongoing Security operation to mop up illegal firearms in the hands of civilians will continue, interior Principal Secretary Dr Raymond Omollo has said.
Speaking in Lodwar during the launch of the Ateker Council of elders, Kenya chapter, Dr Omollo said, “We want to make sure the county is safe. We have had security challenges in these parts of the country which have really devastated the community.”
“The mop-up operation will continue for as long as the threat exists. We have had a conversation with area leadership over concerns raised on how the operation is being conducted, which we will address. But the bottom line is that for the good of everybody, we don’t want guns in the wrong hands,” said Omollo.
Leaders among them Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai, Senator James Lomenen and six area MPs, welcomed the operation but expressed reservations that some innocent people had been victimised.
Governor Lomorukai alleged that some innocent women and a cleric had been brutalised by the security agencies conducting the operation. His sentiments were echoed by Lomenen and Turkana East MP Nicholas Ng’ikor.
Ng’ikor alleged that bandits have continued to attack his constituents in spite of the operation.
Meanwhile, PS Omollo said the government would deal firmly with goons meting violence on innocent civilians. He expressed regret over the attack on Vihiga senator Geoffrey Ososti.
A number of cases have also been reported in Lodwar, including this week’s attack on ODM County vice chairman Abraham Losinyen.
The area MPs also condemned the attack on Esinyen and warned against the use of goons to advance political causes.
Cabinet secretary for East African affairs Beatrice Askul said the county supports the government in its development agenda.
By Peter Gitonga
