NAIROBI,Kenya, Oct, 14 – Deputy Inspector General of Police Edward Mbugua has reiterated the government’s earlier directive calling on all non residents in the areas designated as security operation zones in Laikipia county to vacate the area with immediate effect.
In a statement Mbugua said that the multi-agency operation will continue in a heightened manner until full normalcy is restored within the affected areas.
“Members of the public are encouraged to help multi-agency teams with information to help clear unwanted elements from the disturbed areas. Those who volunteer information n confidence are assured of their security and safety,” said mbnugua in a statement.
The government had on Tuesday ordered all non-residents within Laikipia County’s security operation area to leave as part of efforts to enforce peace and stability in the region.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i said an immediate enhancement of the ongoing security operation will be undertaken in the affected area.
He said that additional special forces and equipment under the heightened command will be deployed to the operation.
The Interior Cabinet Secretary said, “the government notes with grave concern that despite its efforts to enforce peace and stability in Laikipia, hardcore bandits continue to take advantage of the prevailing drought situation in neighbouring counties to commit criminal incursions.”
This came a day after three people were shot dead in the area and a fourth was injured by gunmen in a failed cattle rustling incident.
Matiangi said despite the enhanced presence of security teams, criminals are still trying to challenge the Government’s resolve to restore normalcy and the economic livelihoods of the residents of Laikipia.
He said this will not be tolerated and that a special command team to monitor and continuously review the operation to rid the area of criminal elements has been put in place.
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