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The government has launched a new multi-agency security operation targeting Isiolo, Samburu, and Laikipia counties to curb a resurgence of cattle rustling and resource-based conflicts fueled by the ongoing severe drought.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen announced the immediate commencement of the crackdown on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, following a high-level security meeting in Isiolo.
He said the operation is designed to protect the stability achieved under Operation Maliza Uhalifu (OMU), which officials fear is being undermined by climate-induced desperation.
“The prolonged drought situation in pastoralist areas has heightened resource conflicts and cattle rustling. This risks rolling back the gains the region has made following the implementation of the Operation Maliza Uhalifu (OMU) and other security interventions,” Murkomen said.
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He added, “We are touring the region to assess the security situation and lay down strategies to ensure peace and normalcy is sustained even as the government deploys other measures to mitigate the impact of the drought.”
In order to better respond to threats, create new security roads, and collaborate with other stakeholders to enhance network coverage, Murkomen has confirmed that the security agencies will also reorganize the security teams on the ground.
“We resolved to immediately launch a security operation in Isiolo County and neighbouring Samburu and Laikipia. The operation targets illegal firearms, ammunition, criminals and those abetting crime,” Murkomen said.
Improving Security Networks
He further noted that the government shall reorganize the security teams on the ground to improve the security networks in such areas.
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“We shall also reorganise the security teams on the ground to be able to respond better to threats, open up new security roads and work with other stakeholders to improve the network coverage,” Murkomen noted.
Local political leadership, including Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo, Senator Fatuma Dullo, and several Members of Parliament, were also present to coordinate the civilian-security partnership.
Murkomen noted that the government has vowed that the operation will remain in force alongside humanitarian measures to mitigate the drought’s impact, ensuring that peace and normalcy are sustained during the harsh lean season.
Interior CS Murkomen addressing a security meeting in Isiolo on Tuesday, February 3, 2026.PHOTO/@kipmurkomen/X.