Murkomen prioritizes police welfare in fight against banditry

Murkomen, accompanied by Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and other top security officials, emphasized that police resilience and mental health are crucial for effective law enforcement.

"Police welfare and mental health form the foundation of national security," he stated, adding that investments in aerial surveillance, night vision technology, and protective equipment would enhance operational capacity.

Studies show law enforcement officers face higher rates of PTSD and depression, a situation worsened by the rugged and high-risk environments they operate in. Security experts have hailed the new approach as a paradigm shift, where psychological resilience is treated as a force multiplier in tackling insecurity.

As part of the strategy, Murkomen is restructuring resource distribution to frontline areas while addressing concerns over the misuse of National Police Reservists (NPRs) by politicians. He warned that NPRs are accountable to security agencies, not political figures, and misuse would have legal consequences.

The new Kirimon command centre will complement the Chemolingot base in Baringo County, bolstering security efforts in Laikipia, Samburu, Isiolo, and parts of Meru.

The multi-agency operation, involving the National Police Service and the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), also covers Turkana, West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, and Baringo. Murkomen acknowledged challenges in areas such as Mukokodo Forest and parts of Samburu East but assured intensified efforts to restore peace.

During a security tour in Laikipia, Murkomen and IG Kanja assessed ongoing operations and met security teams from Laikipia, Isiolo, Samburu, and Meru.

The CS praised the dedication of multi-agency forces and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to equipping officers adequately. He also highlighted the role of intelligence in operational success, urging security agencies to fully utilize available data.

IG Kanja commended the collaboration among security agencies, noting significant progress in stabilizing previously volatile regions. He also lauded Murkomen’s frequent visits to the frontline, describing them as a morale boost for officers.

Present during the visit were Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat, Rift Valley Regional Commissioner Hassan Abdi, General Service Unit Commandant Ranson Lolmodooni SAIG, Anti-Stock Theft Unit Commandant Joseph Limo SAIG, Regional Commander Rift Valley Jasper Ombati AIG, and Police Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga AIG, along with other senior security officers.

Additionally, the police service has introduced a dedicated counseling facility under the Directorate of Chaplaincy and Counselling, activated in November 2024. This facility offers professional mental health services to officers in high-risk deployments, reinforcing the commitment to their well-being.

Murkomen assured continued efforts to stamp out criminal elements, restore normalcy, and sustain economic activities in affected areas, marking a new era in Kenya’s fight against banditry.