Ruto Leads Destruction of Over 6,000 Illegal Firearms in National Crackdown on Insecurity
The move is part of a broader national strategy to combat insecurity, organized crime, and the proliferation of small arms across Kenya.
President Ruto oversees destruction of over 6,000 illegal firearms in Ngong’ as part of national anti-crime strategy. Photo/William Ruto.
By Robert Assad
President William Ruto on Tuesday presided over the destruction of more than 6,000 illegal firearms at the National Police Leadership Academy in Ngong’, Kajiado County.
The move is part of a broader national strategy to combat insecurity, organized crime, and the proliferation of small arms across Kenya.
The weapons—recovered between 2022 and 2025—were seized during various security operations, police raids, and voluntary surrender programs.
Their destruction, Ruto said, is a clear demonstration of the government’s unwavering commitment to restore peace and enhance safety across all regions.
“The destruction of more than 6,000 illegal firearms signals our total focus in tackling insecurity and violence in our communities,” the President stated.
According to the Small Arms Survey, Kenya has faced persistent challenges related to the illicit flow of firearms, particularly in border areas and urban centers.
The National Steering Committee on Peacebuilding and Conflict Management has in the past reported that illegal arms are a major driver of cattle rustling, banditry, and political violence.
President Ruto emphasized that his administration is not only committed to removing illegal arms from the hands of criminals but also to ensuring police accountability.
He vowed to protect Kenyans from abuse by law enforcement, stressing that rogue officers who engage in criminal behavior under the guise of law enforcement will face justice.
“We also commit to protect Kenyans from rogue police officers. Criminal elements in uniform must be held to account,” he said.
This comes amid growing public scrutiny over police conduct, especially in the wake of recent incidents involving extrajudicial killings and alleged brutality. In 2023, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) recorded over 100 cases of police misconduct, reinforcing the need for internal reforms and strengthened oversight.
The government has also been implementing police reforms under the National Police Service Strategic Plan, which focuses on professionalism, improved training, and community-based policing.
The destruction exercise, attended by top security officials, foreign diplomats, and civil society representatives, also served as a symbolic gesture to strengthen partnerships in regional security.
Kenya is part of the Nairobi Protocol and a signatory to the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT), which obligates states to reduce illicit arms trafficking and ensure responsible arms management.
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