Tana River County residents continue to cooperate with the government’s voluntary disarmament drive, with four illegal firearms surrendered to authorities on January 12, 2026.
Police said members of the public in Tana North Sub-County handed over the firearms to a multi-agency security team. The weapons have been secured for safe custody pending further processing.
“The National Police Service commends the residents for their cooperation and commitment to peace and security. We remain committed to working closely with local communities, government officers, and other stakeholders to promote voluntary disarmament, strengthen community policing, and ensure public safety,” the police statement read.
On January 9, 2026, residents of Bangale Sub-County voluntarily surrendered five illegal firearms, including three AK-47s and two G3 rifles, along with 13 rounds of ammunition. These items have also been secured pending administrative action.
Police described the voluntary surrender as a major success for the ongoing national disarmament initiative, which aims to improve public safety through community cooperation. Residents and local leaders were praised for responding to the government’s call.
Authorities had previously set a 60-day deadline for the surrender of illegal firearms, warning that failure to comply would result in a forceful disarmament operation. Coast Regional Commissioner Rhoda Onyancha said the government is taking proactive steps to restore security in the area.
“Tana River has experienced several violent inter-clan clashes. We will carry out a large-scale, forceful disarmament after the 60-day period,” Commissioner Onyancha said. She added that police are actively pursuing the organisers of the clashes, some of whom are still at large.
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