West Pokot: Villager surrenders AK-47 with five rounds of ammo
By David Nthua, September 17, 2025The National Police Service on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, confirmed that a West Pokot resident decided to change his ways by surrendering an AK-47 rifle to the police.
Through a post on X, NPS stated that the resident, whose name was not revealed, handed over the weapon to the men in uniform after a come-to-Jesus moment.
Rifle returned
Security officers in the county have since taken custody of the weapon as part of the government’s wider campaign against illegal firearms in the North Rift region.
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According to the statement, the firearm, an AK-47 rifle with a magazine containing five rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, was surrendered in Rorok Village, Kositot Sub-Location of Cheptulel Location.
It was received by security officers through the Assistant County Commissioner Chesegon Division and the area Assistant Chief, who immediately placed it under safe custody pending further administrative action.
NPS commends the action
The National Police Service welcomed the move, describing it as an encouraging signal that locals are beginning to embrace peace and actively contribute to security efforts.
Officials noted that the voluntary surrender demonstrates trust between communities and security officers and could pave the way for more residents to hand in illegal weapons without fear of prosecution.
“The National Police Service applauds this move, noting it as a positive step towards eliminating the proliferation of illegal arms and fostering lasting peace in the region,” read the police statement in part.
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The Service went on to encourage other individuals still in possession of illegal firearms to take advantage of similar opportunities and surrender them voluntarily.
Police also reminded the public that illegal possession of firearms has been a major contributor to insecurity, banditry, and inter-community conflicts, particularly in parts of the Rift Valley.
“The Service encourages other individuals still in possession of such weapons to surrender them voluntarily,” the statement added.
The NPS further appealed to Kenyans to continue cooperating with law enforcement by visiting their nearest police station or using available toll-free hotlines.
These include 999, 911, 112, #FichuaKwaDCI 0800 722 203, or the WhatsApp line 0709 570 000.
By voluntarily surrendering the rifle, the resident set what police believe is a vital example in the national effort to eliminate illegal arms and promote lasting peace.
