Deputy President William Ruto commissioned an integrated police reservists program to combat banditry and cattle rustling in the conflict-affected Kerio Valley.
Accompanied by Inspector General of Police Joseph Boinnet, Ruto installed 230 additional police reservists at Chesongoch, Marakwet East, to support the existing 400 officers from various units.
Security Meeting and Warning to Politicians ¶
Ruto addressed a closed-door security meeting at Chesongoch Sisters’ Convent, where he cautioned politicians against exploiting the suffering of those affected by the violence for political gain.
"Leaders should take a stand that will help bring peace in this region instead of introducing cheap politics into such issues," said Ruto. "We should be part of the solution to the insecurity problem in this area and not part of the problem."
Ruto emphasized that the new reservists will work alongside regular police to halt cattle rustling and related deaths. He announced plans to establish police camps in hotspot areas, utilize aerial support for rapid response, and ensure the region is under a unified police command.
Enhanced Security Measures ¶
The command will have access to a military chopper when needed and an additional armored personnel carrier. This development comes just three days after Ruto issued a shoot-to-kill order against armed bandits in the North Rift.
