The government has vowed to continue its operation to recover illegal firearms in Tana North and Bangale sub-counties of Tana River County until all weapons held unlawfully are surrendered.
Coast Regional Police Commander Ali Nuno said security agencies will intensify the ongoing crackdown, stressing that the operation will only end once every illegal firearm has been recovered.
According to Nuno, the exercise is part of the government’s broader efforts to restore peace and security in the two sub-counties, which have experienced recurring insecurity linked to the proliferation of illegal firearms.
“We will not relent. The operation will continue until the last illegal firearm is surrendered,” Nuno said.
He revealed that some residents have voluntarily surrendered their weapons, but noted that security agencies believe many more illegal firearms remain in the hands of civilians.
The police commander assured residents who choose to hand over their firearms voluntarily that the government will guarantee their safety and protect them throughout the process.
“Those who surrender their weapons willingly should have no fear. The government will ensure they receive adequate protection,” he said.
However, Nuno warned that anyone who fails to surrender illegal firearms will face the full force of the law, adding that all security agencies at both county and sub-county levels have been directed to intensify the operation until every illegal weapon is recovered.
Meanwhile, Tana River County Commissioner Joseph Mwangi urged residents of Tana North and Bangale to surrender any illegal firearms before the government’s deadline expires.
Mwangi said the government has intelligence on individuals believed to be in possession of illegal firearms and warned that those who ignore the directive will face legal action.
“We know those who are in possession of illegal firearms. We urge them to surrender the weapons immediately before the operation concludes. Anyone who defies this directive will face the full force of the law,” he said.
The ongoing operation forms part of the government’s efforts to improve security, curb armed crime, and promote lasting peace in Tana River County, where illegal firearms have long been associated with banditry, intercommunal conflicts, and other criminal activities.
