Interior Principal Secretary (PS) Raymond Omollo has revealed a significant tactical shift in the government’s approach to addressing banditry. PS Omollo stated that the strategy would no longer solely rely on the use of bullets by security forces to silence guns.
Speaking in Siaya County on on Sunday, April 21 during preparations for the burial of Chief of Defence Forces Francis Ogolla, the PS disclosed that General Ogolla had devised an alternative framework for tackling banditry and cattle rustling in the North Rift region.
PS Omollo explained that during discussions with General Ogolla, the focus was on finding solutions beyond traditional military methods.
“On that fateful day, the General was not planning to combat bandits with bullets. Instead, he was inspecting schools because one of the challenges in the North Rift, where banditry is prevalent, is the closure of schools, depriving students of education access,” PS Omollo stated.
He emphasized that, in line with General Ogolla’s vision, the government would explore all avenues to ensure equal opportunities for everyone, particularly through education. PS Omollo noted that General Ogolla was passionate about finding alternative approaches to ending banditry and had supported many students through sponsorship.
The PS further elaborated that the fight against banditry would extend beyond the construction of schools to encompass the rehabilitation of various social amenities.
He highlighted the coordination between the Interior Ministry, Defence, and other ministries in developing a comprehensive master plan to address issues beyond gun violence, including healthcare, environmental conservation, and education.
The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) soldiers and the National Police Service (NPS) are conducting a joint security operation in the region to eradicate banditry and cattle rustling.
