Damascus moment as Tana River residents surrender firearms to police
By David Nthua, January 13, 2026The war on illegal firearms has recorded another milestone in Tana River County.
This is after four firearms, which might have been used to cause instability, were surrendered to the men in uniform.
Through a statement on X on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, the NPS said that residents in Tana North Sub-County had stepped forward in what it described as a powerful show of trust and responsibility.
The National Police Service said the weapons were handed over voluntarily as part of the ongoing government-led disarmament programme, which seeks to remove illegal guns from communities while restoring peace and safety at the grassroots.
According to the police, the four firearms were immediately secured for safe custody as officials began the necessary procedures to ensure they are removed from circulation permanently.
A community choosing peace
The police praised the courage of the residents who surrendered the guns, noting that their action reflects a growing desire for stability in a region that has, in the past, suffered from insecurity and armed conflict.
“The voluntary surrender of illegally held firearms in Tana River County continues to make positive progress.
“On 12 January 2026, members of the public in Tana North Sub-County voluntarily surrendered four illegal firearms to a multi-agency security team as part of the ongoing government-led disarmament initiative,” the NPS statement reads in parts.
For many families in the area, the move was more than just handing over weapons. It was a quiet but powerful decision to choose dialogue over fear and cooperation over confrontation.
Building trust on the ground
The National Police Service said it remains committed to working closely with local communities, National Government Administration Officers and other stakeholders to ensure the disarmament exercise continues in a peaceful and inclusive manner.
“National Police Service commends the residents for their cooperation and commitment to peace and security,” the statement further read, adding that community policing remains key to lasting stability.
Security teams on the ground have been engaging elders, youth and local leaders to encourage more people to give up illegal firearms without fear of harassment or punishment.
As more residents come forward, the police say they are hopeful that Tana North and the wider Tana River County will continue moving towards a safer and more secure future.