State extends security operation, orders surrender of firearms in Marsabit

Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen/ MINA

The government has extended the declaration of parts of Marsabit County as security disturbed and dangerous and imposed a ban on possession of firearms in the affected areas. 

The orders were issued through two separate Kenya Gazette notices dated December 19, 2025.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said the extension was made under section 106 (6) of the National Police Service Act, in consultation with the National Security Council. 

The directive extends the original declaration made on November 21, 2025.

The notice lists the following areas in Marsabit County as disturbed and dangerous: Hillo Gorgora, Hillo Orofa, Hillo Walkite, Hillo Tanzania, Hillo Irress Abamartille and Hillo Gootu.

Other areas include Hillo Tessum Qalicha, Hillo Karray, Hillo Hudda, Hillo Qoranjido, Hillo Irress Shindia, Hillo Rabaalee and Hillo Godde Haroressa.

Murkomen said the declaration will take effect on December 23, 2025, from 6.30pm.

It will remain in force for 30 days. 

"This notice shall take effect on the 23rd December, 2025, as from  6.30pm, for a period of thirty (30) days and may, at any time be  withdrawn or continued in force for such further period as the Cabinet  Secretary may, in each case, by notice in the Kenya Gazette direct," Murkomen said.

The extension signals continued government concern over insecurity in northern Kenya. 

Parts of Marsabit have experienced recurring armed attacks linked to banditry and clan conflict. 

The ministry has deployed additional security units in recent months in efforts to stabilise the region and restore peace.

In a related notice, Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja prohibited the possession of firearms in the affected areas. 

The order was issued under section 106 (2) (a) of the National Police Service Act.

Kanja directed that all inhabitants in the named zones surrender any arms in their possession with immediate effect. 

The weapons should be handed over to the nearest police station, police post, police camp or National Government Administration office. 

The disarmament must take place during daytime hours.

“All inhabitants of the said areas are ordered, with immediate effect, to surrender all arms in their possession," the IG said. 

He added that the disarmament aims to enhance the safety of residents.

Kanja assured residents that the firearms will be returned after the notice is revoked. 

“All arms surrendered shall be returned to their owners upon the revocation or termination of this notice,” he said.

Security agencies are expected to conduct operations to enforce the directives. 

Residents in the affected locations have been urged to cooperate with the authorities. 

The government said the measures are meant to protect lives and restore order ahead of the festive season.