Govt Declares Select Parts of the Country as Dangerous Zones

The government has officially designated some parts of Laikipia, Meru, and Isiolo as security-disturbed areas considered to be dangerous zones.

This move is aimed at paving the way for an extensive security operation geared towards controlling criminal activities in these regions.

The move by the government was officially communicated in a special edition of the Kenya Gazette dated March 26, 2026.

The move by the government is in accordance with provisions of the National Police Service Act.

The notice indicates that it is effective immediately and is valid for an initial period of 30 days.

However, it can be extended after the initial period depending on the situation.

“We have declared parts of Laikipia, Meru, and Isiolo as security-disturbed areas considered to be dangerous zones to facilitate an extensive security operation geared towards controlling criminal activities in these regions.”

Security Operation Intensified

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said the move is part of a broader strategy aimed at dismantling criminal networks that have destabilized the regions in recent months.

The Gazette notice specifically lists multiple hotspots across Laikipia North, Tigania East, Igembe North and Isiolo North sub-counties, including forests, hills, and game reserves believed to be hideouts for armed groups.

Security agencies are expected to conduct coordinated operations, including patrols, intelligence-led raids and surveillance, as part of efforts to restore law and order.

“This operation, which also involves a mop-up of illegal firearms, follows our earlier deployment of 400 additional police officers to reinforce the officers on the ground, among other measures.”

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Focus on Illegal Firearms and Banditry

The government has noted the rise of illegal firearms as one of the contributing factors to insecurity in the targeted regions, with banditry and cattle rustling in the recent past.

The government has noted that the operation will also focus on the disarmament process, with the focus being on individuals and groups involved in criminal activities.

The public in the noted regions are advised to cooperate with the security agents, with the government noting that tough measures will be employed during the period of the operation.

“We shall intensify our efforts until banditry is completely eradicated in these areas and criminal networks dismantled.”

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Temporary Measures With Long-Term Implications

The Gazette notice further indicates that it is possible to withdraw or extend the declaration by means of further notices in response to changing dynamics in the security situation.

The intervention is an affirmation of the government’s renewed commitment to securing northern and central regions of Kenya that have traditionally been characterized by insecurity.

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