Top of PageGun Policy News
Firearm violence, gun control and small arms
Kenya Authorities Plan Crackdown on Illegal Guns
10 May 2013
Star (Kenya)
Western PC James Serian has said the regional security team is profiling people with illegal arms. "There are illegal firearms in Western particularly in Mt Elgon, Malaba, Teso, Busia, along the Kenya and even Kakamega. Currently we are profiling all persons we suspect have fire arms," said Serian.
He said the provincial security team will start an operation to recover all guns in wrong hands in the area. Serian said the porous Kenya-Uganda border could be blamed for... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Police Deny Allegations Guns Being Issued to Unlicensed People
9 May 2013
Star (Kenya)
MOMBASA - An assistant police commissioner has denied claims that firearms are being issue to unvetted people. Central Firearms Bureau chief licensing officer David Baya said firearms are only issued to civilians after going through a series of thorough interrogations by security officers at different levels.
A civilian who owned a licensed gun told media houses that there is a broker in Mombasa behind the deals. He said the broker cuts deals between senior security... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenyans Worried Over Use of Pistols, Homemade Guns as Crimes Rise
17 April 2013
Capital FM (Nairobi)
NAIROBI, Kenya – A survey conducted recently has revealed an alarming level of armed robberies and other violent crimes in Nairobi.
According to the study by Security Research and Information Centre, 41 percent of crimes reported are violent robberies and residents in all parts of the city are prone to such attacks.
Inspector General David Kimaiyo welcomed the Nairobi Regional Annual Crime Observatory Report, saying it will help in facilitating stakeholders to... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Police Order an Audit of Gun Licences
30 March 2013
Star (Kenya)
Inspector General of Police David Kimaiyo has asked for a full list of all licensed firearms across the country as police launch an audit of guns and ammunition.
The police chief has asked for the audit from the Chief Firearms Licensing Officer who keeps records of all arms. Kimaiyo yesterday said he had called for the routine audit to establish how many guns are in private hands and those in custody of security agents, including those being used by police reservists... (GunPolicy.org)
Iran,Syria,United Kingdom,Kenya,North Korea
Iran, N. Korea, Syria Block Arms Trade Treaty at Last Minute
29 March 2013
Australian (Sydney)
Iran, North Korea and Syria have held up agreement on the first global treaty on the $US80 billion ($A76.97 billion) a year conventional arms trade.
The three states twice blocked moves to adopt a treaty by consensus at the end of 10 days of arduous talks at the UN headquarters.
Kenya announced that a coalition of countries from around the world would now take the treaty straight to the 193-member UN General Assembly next week for approval. It can be passed with a two... (GunPolicy.org)
Drunk Kenyan Cop Threatens Citizens with Gun
26 March 2013
Star (Kenya)
A police officer who was allegedly harassing members of the public in Siakago town last weekend by cocking his gun and threatening to shoot them is facing disciplinary measures.
Reliable sources told the star that the officer who was armed with an AK47 rifle was guarding the Cooperative Bank in Siakago town when he began harassing members of public.
The sources said he would now and then sneak into a nearby bar and drink beer before going back to his station.... (GunPolicy.org)
Europe,China,Asia,Americas,Oceania,Kenya,Cuba,Côte d'Ivoire,Africa,Central America,Russia,United States
Women Explain Why an Arms Trade Treaty Can Save Many Lives
7 March 2013
Amnesty International (London), Media release
It is estimated at least half a million people are killed with guns every year and on average a further 200,000 men, women and children die as an indirect result of armed conflicts and violence that are frequently fuelled by the uncontrolled flow of small arms.
And for every person that is killed in an armed conflict, many more are injured and tortured, raped, abused, forcibly disappeared, taken hostage or displaced. Even more have their access to food, water, shelter,... (GunPolicy.org)
China,Africa,Côte d'Ivoire,Somalia,Angola,South Africa,Sudan,Zimbabwe,Kenya
Unknown Quantities of Chinese Arms in Africa a Concern
21 February 2013
Star (Kenya), Opinion
Much is being written and said in the media and academic circles about China's increasing engagement with Africa on many economic and other fronts.
Some see this as benefiting Africa; others as detrimental to the real needs of African countries and peoples. Some critics have used phrases like "the second scramble for Africa" and "re-colonization of Africa" to describe the new development. The debate goes on.
Yet, there is one subject that has not received the serious... (GunPolicy.org)
Critics Worried About Failing Disarmament Efforts in Kenya
6 February 2013
Capital FM (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — With less than a month to go until Kenya's general election, analysts are warning that widespread illegal gun ownership presents real risks to security. Government efforts to disarm the population have been ineffective, they say.
The warnings come after a series of violent incidents, particularly between pastoral and farming communities fighting over water, grazing rights and other resources.
Clashes between the Orma and Pokomo groups in the Tana Delta... (GunPolicy.org)
Political Aides in Kenya Accused of Misusing Guns
31 January 2013
Star (Kenya)
Detectives are investigating alleged threats and misuse of firearms by aides to some politicians in Mombasa County.
Coast provincial police boss Aggrey Adoli said his office had received complaints over misuse of arms which had caused a major security threat during campaigns.
"We want to establish if the bodyguards who have been brandishing pistols and shooting in the air in public places have genuine license to carry the firearms," said Adoli.
A senior police... (GunPolicy.org)
West Africa,East Africa,Kenya,Uganda,Rwanda,Tanzania,Burundi
East Africa Civil Society Calls for Tougher Laws to Curb Illegal Gun Trade
27 January 2013
New Vision (Kampala)
The East Africa Action Network on small arms (EAANSA) has called for tougher laws and increased vigilance among member states of the East African community (EAC) to curb illegal movement of small arms and light weapons.
According to the executive secretary EAANSA, Richard Mugisha, considering that the dynamics and movement of small arms and light weapons (SALWs) transcend the political boarders that divide state parties within East Africa, there is need for increased... (GunPolicy.org)
Czech Republic,Hungary,Côte d'Ivoire,Iran,Guinea,Niger,Russia,South Sudan,China,Uganda,Afghanistan,Nigeria,Kenya,Iraq,Congo (DRC)
Trail of Bullet Casings Leads From Africa's Wars Back to Iran
11 January 2013
New York Times
The first clues appeared in Kenya, Uganda and what is now South Sudan. A British arms researcher surveying ammunition used by government forces and civilian militias in 2006 found Kalashnikov rifle cartridges he had not seen before. The ammunition bore no factory code, suggesting that its manufacturer hoped to avoid detection.
Within two years other researchers were finding identical cartridges circulating through the ethnic violence in Darfur. Similar ammunition then... (GunPolicy.org)
Russia,Ukraine,Kenya,East Africa,European Union,Israel,Libya,Yemen,Ethiopia,United States,Somalia
Special Investigation: Lack of Gun Treaty Fuels Kenyan Smuggling Trade
9 January 2013
Star (Kenya)
Whether looking after his herd of cattle or taking them to the watering point, Boru hardly leaves his AK47 behind. He lives in the outskirts of Gambella village, a few kilometres from Isiolo town.
"It has become like a stick for me. I carry it around and my enemies fear me. It gives me more power than I had before I acquired it," Boru said.
Taking cover from the scorching sun under the shade of an old acacia tree, Boru, a father of three, told the Star he bought his... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda,Ethiopia,Kenya,South Sudan,Somalia,East Africa,Tanzania
Special Investigation: How Smugglers are Flooding Kenya with Guns
8 January 2013
Star (Kenya), Series
There are estimated 530,000-680,000 firearms in the wrong hands in Kenya. The number of illegal arms has grown over the years and is said to fuel the conflicts witnessed within Kenya and the region.
In an investigation that took close to a year, our correspondent Kassim Mohamed tracked down some of the people who smuggle small arms and light weapons into Kenya and unveils a dangerous trend that can affect the current peace if nothing is done by not just the Kenyan... (GunPolicy.org)
200,000 Kenyan Households Possess Illegal Firearms
14 December 2012
Star (Kenya)
Between 170 Thousand and 200 thousand household have illegal firearms due to porous borders. Internal security assistant Minister Alfred Khangati says the government is at the moment carrying out a disarmament program. Khangati says a policy on small arms has been drawn and awaits cabinet... (GunPolicy.org)
Separatists Attempt to Steal Guns from Police Before Kenya Election
10 December 2012
Reuters
Sixty men armed with machetes, clubs and bows and arrows tried and failed to steal guns from a police station in Mombasa, in the biggest attack planned by separatists seeking independence for Kenya's Indian Ocean coastal strip, police said on Monday.
Police intercepted the men on their way to the station. They said they belonged to the secessionist Mombasa Republic Council (MRC), an accusation rejected by its leaders, and that three separatists were later killed in a... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Police Officer Shoots Wife, Kills Daughter and Self
29 October 2012
Capital FM (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — A police officer shot and killed his 23-year-old daughter in Kakamega and wounded his wife before killing himself on Monday morning.
The officer had just collected his AK 47 rifle from the armoury at 7.30am in readiness to go supervise the ongoing Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations when he suddenly went back to his house and found his daughter in the kitchen preparing breakfast.
"As soon as he collected the rifle, he was supposed... (GunPolicy.org)
Man Arrested in Kenya Over Alleged Illegal Gun Possession
26 October 2012
Star (Kenya)
A man who was arrested in Laikipia for ferrying firearms was yesterday arraigned before a Nyahururu court.
Lucas Lolodepe denied the charges of illegal possession of firearms.
Appearing before Nyahururu principal magistrate William Chepseba, he denied eight counts of holding various types of guns.
According to the charge sheet, they included six AK 47 rifles, two G3 and seven Russian made carrabine guns. He was also arrested with five rounds of ammunition and working... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Authorities Offer Gun Amnesty After Deadly Clashes
23 October 2012
Star (Kenya)
The Government has issued amnesty to all those who would surrender firearms voluntarily in the Tanadelta district which experienced deadly clashes in the past two months.
Authorities said all those who would surrender firearms voluntarily shall not be prosecuted and instead will be given certificates of commendation for returning the illegal firearms.
However those who will defy the orders shall be liable for prosecution and face the full force of the law as more than... (GunPolicy.org)
Somalia,Congo (DRC),Kenya,South Sudan,Sudan,Uganda,East Africa
East Africa States to Work Together to Reduce Gun Trafficking
16 October 2012
New Vision (Kampala)
Directors of Criminal Intelligence and Investigations Directorates (CIID) in the East African region on Monday resolved to support Somalia to neutralise gun trafficking across the region.
The directors said arms traffickers were taking advantage of Somalia's instability and location next to the sea.
The Inspector General of Police, Lt. Gen. Kale Kayihura, said Somalia, which is now a reconstructed state, is ready to halt and thrash all culprits in gun trafficking... (GunPolicy.org)
Second Security Official Gunned Down in Kenya
15 October 2012
Garowe Online (Somalia)
DADAAB, Kenya — Gunmen killed an official of the Dadaab security committee in broad daylight on Monday, Garowe Online reports.
According to sources, four gunmen in the IFO camp part of the massive Dadaab refugee camp killed Mahad Said Duaseyne on Monday, a high-ranking member of the camps security committee.
The gunmen fled the scene after the shooting and authorities are currently investigating the killing.
According to witnesses, Mr. Duaseyne was shot repeatedly... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Police Seize AK-47 Rifles, Ammo from Bus
6 October 2012
Star (Kenya)
Anti-terrorism police officers yesterday seized two AK-47 rifles, 60 rounds of ammunition and three AK-47 magazines in a bus at Mokowe in Lamu.
The Mombasa bound bus belonging to Najah Company was intercepted after intelligence reports indicated that it was smuggling the firearms.
Coast provincial police boss Aggrey Adoli said the seizure is a major breakthrough on the war against terror.
Ten suspects including the driver of the bus, conductor and passengers are... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Police Accused of 'Brutality' During Gun Disarmament Campaign
25 September 2012
Star (Kenya), Opinion
Security agencies are conducting a disarmament exercise in Tana River that is necessary to flush out guns illegally held by locals.
It is highly likely that these firearms were used in the recent spate of violence that left more than 110 people dead and thousands displaced. While most of the deaths were from what police describes as crude weapons including pangas and clubs, a few gunshot wounds were reported. Guns could have also been used to subdue the victims before... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Police Order Community to Give Up Guns After Deaths
18 August 2012
Star (Kenya)
The government yesterday issued a seven-day ultimatum to the warring pastoralists and farmers in Tana River to surrender all illegal firearms before they are forcibly disarmed. Coast PC Samuel Kilele issued the order after a more than four-hour meeting leaders in Garsen. The meeting was attended by senior provincial security chiefs including police boss Aggrey Adoli, area MP Danson Mungatana and leaders from the two communities.
Kilele said he was aware that there were... (GunPolicy.org)
Proposed New Law Would Give Kenyan Spies Power To Carry, Use Guns
2 August 2012
Star (Kenya)
Spy agents will soon have powers to carry and use firearms in an attempt to deal with increasing security threats. The National Intelligence Service Bill 2012 which is now before Parliament also gives the agency's Director General, "in the event of extreme emergency" unfettered access to any place, seize any property including information and document [sic] and restrain suspects from escaping.
There is however a caveat that the DG shall "as soon as practically... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya,East Africa,Syria,Uganda
Stemming Gun Violence in Uganda
28 July 2012
The Independent (Kampala)
United Nations diplomats from over 190 countries, including Uganda, are at the organisation's headquarters in New York discussing a pact to regulate the global arms trade.
The Global Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) would especially check the illicit trade in arms in a global arms industry that, while amounting to US$60 billion, remains unregulated. Advocates for the treaty say this lack of regulation of the arms industry is catastrophic, as it fuels conflicts that claim... (GunPolicy.org)
South Sudan,Uganda,Ethiopia,Somalia,Kenya
Rising Tide of Small Arms in Kenya
3 July 2012
IRIN (UN News)
DADAAB/ISIOLO — A spate of "terror" attacks, aid worker kidnappings and heightened ethnic conflict in northern Kenya have fuelled demand for small arms by civilians and criminals, say security officials.
On 2 July, four foreign aid workers - all employees of NGO Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) - were rescued inside Somalia and returned to Kenya after being kidnapped in eastern Kenya's Dadaab refugee settlement; their driver was killed during the kidnap. In October... (GunPolicy.org)
Oxfam Commend Africa's Efforts to Check Flow of Illegal Small Arms
20 June 2012
Coast Week (Kenya) / Xinhua
KAPENGURIA - British charity Oxfam has lauded Kenya and some other African countries for pushing for regulation of small arms after disability was blamed in the region.
The organization's Arms Control Officer Anna MacDonald said on Tuesday the proliferation of small arms to Africa is threatening security and poverty alleviation and sabotaging economic development.
"The unchecked flow of light weapons into Africa is of great concern and have not only ruined lives but... (GunPolicy.org)
600,000 Illicit Arms Circulating Within Kenya, Reveals Survey
13 June 2012
Star (Kenya)
About 600,000 illicit arms are in circulation in the country, a recent survey conducted jointly by the Kenya National Focal Point on Small Arms KNFP and the Geneva-based Small Arms Survey SAS reveals.
Majority of this are concentrated in the hands of pastoralists from north and north eastern regions as well as in major urban centres such as Nairobi and Mombasa where they are used in committing crimes.
A statement from the Kenya Action Network on Small Arms said these... (GunPolicy.org)
Marsabit, Upper Eastern Kenya - Where the Gun Rules
30 May 2012
Capital FM (Nairobi)
MARSABIT, Kenya — They brave through the empty, lonely and insecure all-weather Marsabit roads to attend to their daily businesses.
In this town in upper Eastern Kenya, residents can only walk in groups or hire Administration Police officers to escort them to their places of work.
Instead of herding animals with the traditional shepherd's staff, herders in the North Eastern District graze their animals carrying guns and swords!
Indeed, this is the daily life in... (GunPolicy.org)
Collaboration between Police, Civilians Leads to Seizure of 45 Guns in Kenya
24 May 2012
Star (Kenya)
A collaboration between the provincial administration, Njuri Ncheke Council of Elders and community policing initiatives has led to recovery of 45 firearms in Meru county.
According to the Meru Deputy Commissioner Dixon Kwanusu, the District Security Intelligence Committees have been promoting community policing which led to the success. "Members of the public and security agencies share information with each other instead of seeking it from strangers who at times do... (GunPolicy.org)
Burundi,Tanzania,Rwanda,East Africa,Uganda,Kenya
Lack of Arms Trade Treaty Puts East Africa at Centre of Gun Trafficking
8 May 2012
New Vision (Kampala)
A total of 300,000 small arms and light weapons have been smuggled into Uganda and other East African community countries for the last 10 years.
This is as revealed by the executive secretary East Africa Action Network on small arms (EAANSA), Richard Mugisha has revealed.
Mugisha said the importation of illegal small arms was high in East Africa due to the existing arms embargoes which are too easy to break or ignore by different countries.
"How can the sale of... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Major Transit Point for Arms Trafficking in East Africa
25 April 2012
Star (Kenya)
Kenya is a major transit point for illegal weapons destined to war torn countries in sub-Saharan Africa, the East Africa Legislative Assembly has said. EALA speaker Abdirahin Abdi said this is due to Kenya's strategic position through its port of Mombasa and other long porous borders with her neighbours.
Abdi was speaking in Mombasa when he officially opened a two day sensitisation forum on the need to support Small Arms And Light Weapons for parliamentary security,... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya, Ethiopia Turn to Trade to Curb Cross Border Gun Running
7 April 2012
East African (Nairobi)
Kenya and Ethiopia are opening up their volatile border to more trade as they seek to improve community relations, ease inter-ethnic tensions to reduce demand for small arms and disrupt one of the main routes of illicit small arms coming into East Africa.
Illicit small arms trade in the Horn of Africa and the Great Lakes region has been one of the main drivers of crime across East Africa and has sustained organised criminal networks like cattle rustlers and urban... (GunPolicy.org)
Guns, Domestic Shootings Factor in Kenya's 1,756 Violent Deaths
4 April 2012
Nation (Kenya)
Some 1,756 people were killed last year by violent and armed criminals, a new police report shows.
The report, which records an increase in serious crimes like murder and violent robbery, cites the rise of criminal gangs and availability of guns on the black market as the reasons.
It shows a seven per cent surge in incidents reported to police compared to 2010.
Police, however, note that a "significant" number of victims were not killed by gangsters but died at the... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Govt Launches an Amnesty for Those in Possession of Illegal Firearms
23 March 2012
Star (Kenya)
The government has given those in possession of illegal firearms in Western province a one month amnesty to return the guns. Speaking during a two day workshop on awareness rising on the dangers of illicit small arms and light weapons in a Bungoma hotel, the Kenya National Focal Point director David Kimaiyo said the criminals have been terrosing residents of Bungoma North, Kimilili and parts of Webuye. The workshop was also attended by Upper Western regional... (GunPolicy.org)
Panama,Liberia,Oman,Yemen,Egypt,Saudi Arabia,Mauritius,Seychelles,Mongolia,Djibouti,Madagascar,United Arab Emirates,United Kingdom,Somalia,Kenya
Anti-piracy Security Firms Keep Guns in Floating Armouries to Avoid Law
22 March 2012
Associated Press
NAIROBI, Kenya — Private security firms are storing their guns aboard floating armories in international waters so ships that want armed anti-piracy guards for East Africa's pirate-infested waters can cut costs and circumvent laws limiting the import and export of weapons, industry officials say.
Companies and legal experts say the operation of the armories is a "legal gray area" because few, if any, governments have laws governing the practice. Some security... (GunPolicy.org)
Suspected Belgian Killers Involved in Illegal Gun Trade in Uganda and Kenya
22 March 2012
New Vision (Kampala)
Four men including a police officer who allegedly murdered a Belgian tourist in Mount Elgon National Park in Kapchorwa district in 2008 were allegedly involved in an illegal firearms trade, a Police commissioner has told court.
Christopher Kwerit, a commissioner in charge of political education in the Police force produced charge and caution statements before the court martial on Tuesday in which the suspects allegedly confessed that they were involved in arms trade in... (GunPolicy.org)
Côte d'Ivoire,Mali,Togo,West Africa,Ghana,Kenya
Ghana National Security Receives Firearm Marking Machines
7 March 2012
Ghana News Agency
The Regional Centre for Small Arms and Light Weapons (RECSA) based in Kenya, on Wednesday presented two weapon marking machines to Ghana in efforts to eliminate the illicit trade and proliferation of small arms and weapons.
The donation was made during a three-day training programme for security personnel on weapons marking and record-keeping in Accra and organised in collaboration with the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA) and Ministry of the... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya,Sudan,Congo (DRC),Uganda
Uganda Government is Drafting a Bill to Tighten, Control, Limit Firearm Use
25 February 2012
Monitor (Kampala)
The government is drafting a bill to tighten, control and limit the use of firearms by security agencies and civilians across the country. The Firearms, Ammunition and Related Materials Bill seeks to harmonise all existing laws governing possession of guns, including the Firearms Act, 1970.
The 1970 Act only regulates ownership of firearms held by individuals, while those held by the police and security agencies are governed under separate laws. It is not known how... (GunPolicy.org)
Somalia,Mozambique,Tanzania,Kenya,East Africa
Small Arms Proliferation in East Africa Fueling Conflicts and Instability - Opinion
23 February 2012
Pambazuka News (Africa), Opinion
A proliferation of small arms is fueling conflict and instability in East Africa. The ongoing pre-election violence in Kenya and the 'war on terror' will deter domestic and international investors, business people and economists say. These fears are valid given that illicit weapons are said to be hidden in parts of Kenya, especially in the Rift Valley Province.
On 9 December 2009 and on 2 February 2010, thousands of bullets, army uniforms, thousands of litres of fuel,... (GunPolicy.org)
Conditions to Be Met when Applying for Firearm Licence in Kenya
6 January 2012
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
When applying for a firearms certificate, one is required to have a valid certificate of good conduct and a photocopy of their Kenyan Identity Card.
Aliens will have to produce passports, work permits and any other supporting documents.
The originals of the above documents are submitted to the local police boss, who will complete a questionnaire and make his recommendations and thereafter forward to his OCPD.
A safe inspection report, which is filled after the... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Regional Commissioner Urges Isiolo Communities to Surrender Arms
14 December 2011
Nairobi Star (Kenya)
Communities in Isiolo have been advised to take advantage of the government amnesty to surrender illegal firearms in their custody.
Upper Eastern Regional Commissioner Isaih Nakoru said the government has deployed enough security officers into the areas and that security has been beefed up.
He said those who voluntarily surrender the firearms will not be victimised and that people must feel free to return them at any time. "I am appealing to the communities to start... (GunPolicy.org)
In a Year, NYC Police Fire 20% of Bullets Fired in Hours by Kenya Police
4 December 2011
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
Consider this and think of the situation in Kenya as you read on: Last year, 52 officers out of a force of 34,565 officers from the New York Police Department intentionally fired 236 bullets during confrontations with suspects.
The officers reportedly shot and killed only eight people and injured 16 the whole year, in what the Police Department say marked record lows.
Of course the social and economic realities of Nairobi and New York are totally different but there... (GunPolicy.org)
Congo (DRC),Africa,Kenya,United States
High-price US Fashion Jewellery Made from AK-47s Funds Gun Destruction
30 November 2011
New York Times
When Cara Buono arrived at the Emmy Awards in September, nominated as best guest actress in a drama series for her role as Dr. Faye Miller in "Mad Men," she wore a $150,000 political statement in her lobes. "These earrings," she said, "are made from AK-47 gun metal."
Ms. Buono's husband, Peter Thum, is a founder, with John Zapolski, of Fonderie 47, an organization that converts what is perhaps the most widely distributed assault rifle into jewelry.
On a visit to Kenya... (GunPolicy.org)
50,000 Illegal Guns in Kenya: Government Must Curb Cartels, Say NGOs
22 November 2011
Nairobi Star (Kenya)
More than 50,000 illegal guns are still in the hands of civilians, especially in urban areas and other regions prone to cattle rustling.
A report by civil society groups indicates that the government has been unable to deal with the infiltration of small arms into the country because of involvement of some well-connected individuals involved in the trade. Chairman of the NGOs Council Ken Wafula wants the government to crack down on the cartels.
Wafula says that unless... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Police Recover Illegal Arms in Refugee Camp
1 November 2011
Nairobi Star (Kenya)
A security operation to recover illegal firearms in the three refugee camps in Garissa county in North-Eastern region has unearthed a cache of firearms believed to have been used in crime including hijacking vehicles belonging to humanitarian organisations and foreigners in refugee camps.
The operation which started two weeks ago in the Ifo, Hagardera and Dagahaley have so far recovered four AK 47 assault rifles, 16 magazines and 477 bullets in Hagardera refugee... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda,East Africa,South Africa,Kenya
Security Threat in Kenya Triggers Debate on Whether to Give Guards Guns
27 October 2011
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
At the Majlis Resort on Manda Island, the night watchman carries only a radio and a torch. As dusk falls on the island, a team of local police officers armed with rifles arrives and settles down on the beachfront.
Less than a month ago, Somali pirates kidnapped French woman Marieu Dedieu from this very spot. Now police are here to guard a handful of tourists still remaining in Lamu, because they are the only ones who can do it.
"The government wrote a letter to... (GunPolicy.org)
150,000 Illegal Arms in 2003 to 350,000 in 2011, Expert Warns Kenya
21 October 2011
Nairobi Star (Kenya)
There are more than 350,000 illegal arms in the country, an expert has said. Deputy Director of the Kenya National Focal Point on Small Arms and Light Weapons Patrick Ochieng said the number of illegal arms has shot up in the recent past noting that in 2003 there were only 150,000 illegal firearms in the country.
"We are facing an upsurge of guns which are in the wrong hands and they have become a threat to the country's national security," Ochieng said during a... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda,Sudan,Ethiopia,Somalia,Kenya
Onus Now on Kenya Government to Halt the Firearms Threat - Opinion
9 October 2011
Daily Nation (Nairobi), Opinion
Recent revelations that there are between 200,000 and 450,000 illegal firearms in circulation in the country are quite alarming.
The government must move fast to ensure that this trend of events is put to an immediate halt.
We believe that the country's porous borders are a contributory factor and the authorities must step up efforts to eradicate the menace.
The National Small Arms Mapping Survey, a joint effort between the government and the Swiss-based Small Arms... (GunPolicy.org)
Ukraine,Uganda,Sudan,Ethiopia,Libya,Somalia,Kenya
Police Close Kenya-Somalia Border, Attempt to Block 'Conduit of Illicit Arms'
5 October 2011
Business Daily (Nairobi)
Police Commissioner Mathew Iteere's Monday order to close the Kenya-Somalia border has not affected flights, offering miraa traders and humanitarian workers a lifeline.
Miraa is one of Kenya's largest exports to Somalia, accounting for a substantial share of the Sh13 billion export value to the country last year, according to the Economic Survey 2011.
"We do not have any indication of cancellation of flights from the commissioner's communication," said Kenya Police... (GunPolicy.org)
Bill Recommends 5-yr Prison Term for Misuse of Firearms in Kenya
26 September 2011
Nairobi Star (Kenya)
Misuse or illegal possession of firearms will now be punishable by a five-year jail term if the Cabinet passes a newly developed draft bill on small and light weapons compiled by Kenya National Focal Point.
The Bill, which has been handed over to the Minister for Provincial Administration and Internal Security George Saitoti, recommends that any police officer or licensed firearm holder who handles a gun while under the influence of alcohol will be jailed if... (GunPolicy.org)
East Africa,Somalia,Sudan,Uganda,Ethiopia,Kenya
Hundreds Die in Gun Violence, Cattle Rustling in East African Drought
20 September 2011
Think Africa Press, Opinion
TURKANA, Kenya - On a recent trip to Turkana in northern Kenya, somewhere between Maralal and Baragoi we stopped by a dry riverbed. A group of 12 men came into view through the desert scrub. As they drew closer their weapons were clearly visible, a mix of AK47s, ex-government issue G3s and a few older rifles. Our nervousness was unwarranted and the group barely slowed as they passed, merely raising their hands in greeting before continuing on towards some distant... (GunPolicy.org)
Between 200,000-450,000 Illegal Guns in Kenya, Urgent Call to Action
17 September 2011
Daily Nation (Nairobi), Editorial
A new report on the rise in the number of people who have access to guns is as alarming as it is unsurprising.
The report by the respected Small Arms Survey estimates there are between 200,000 and 450,000 guns in the wrong hands in this country.
It is well established that a functional state is one where the government has a monopoly on the use of violence.
By that measure the report's findings are disturbing because they indicate that large parts of the country are... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania,Sudan,Somalia,Seychelles,Kenya,Eritrea,Ethiopia,Djibouti,East Africa,Congo (DRC),Rwanda,Burundi
RECSA Calls for Increased Efforts to Reduce Small Arms in East Africa
16 September 2011
New Times (Rwanda)
The Executive Secretary of the Regional Centre on Small Arms (RECSA), Dr. Francis K. Sang, has called upon all countries within the region to come up with more mechanisms and strategies to fight against the proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons.
RECSA is an intergovernmental body based in Nairobi, Kenya, bringing together 13 countries from the Great Lakes and Horn of Africa region.
All member states that subscribe to the centre, including Rwanda, are... (GunPolicy.org)
Brew Trader Woman Shot Dead by Armed Gunmen in Kenya Slums
7 September 2011
Nairobi Star (Kenya)
An illegal brew trader was on Monday night shot dead by armed gunmen in Kibera slums. According to police, the woman is known to sell traditional brew Chang'aa within Siranga area of the slums.
Kilimani OCPD Benard Muli confirmed the 8pm shooting and added that a group of about six armed men carried out the murder. She was attacked in her house while in the company of her customers. Muli said that they were investigating the incident to establish why they only shot her... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Gun Control, Firearm Licensing Restrictions, Penalties to Increase
30 August 2011
Nairobi Star (Kenya)
The government is to introduce new laws for acquiring guns. Kenya National Focal Point on Small Arms and Light Weapons Director David Kimaiyo has said the new laws will include stiff penalties for misuse of illegally acquired guns.
Kimaiyo said there had been many cases of misuse of licensed guns but now proper vetting will be done before guns are issued. He said currently the laws dealing with licensed guns did not adequately deal with their abuse.
Kimaiyo who was... (GunPolicy.org)
Three Ethiopians with 2,000 Bullets Arrested at Kenyan Border
17 August 2011
Nairobi Star (Kenya)
Police in Moyale have arrested three suspected Ethiopians with more than 2,000 bullets at the border town a day after two people were killed in the area.
The three were intercepted crossing the border with the bullets in their bags. The police locked them up in Moyale police station. Upper Eastern regional PC Isaiah Nakoru said the suspects had Kenyan IDs. The PC, who held series of meetings in Moyale to calm the situation following the killing of two people two days... (GunPolicy.org)
3rd Licensed Gun Owner Charged in Kenya Road Rage, Shooting Dramas
6 July 2011
Standard (Nairobi)
A businessman was arrested after he dramatically fired six rounds of ammunition in a road rage incident at the junction of Kenyatta Avenue and Koinange Street, Nairobi.
Mr Elly Owuor, was arrested outside the Serena Hotel where he had escaped to following the 3am incident on Wednesday.
Mr Owuor's black sleek Mercedes Benz car had been involved in an accident with another salon vehicle when he suddenly came out holding a pistol in his hand.
Police confirmed that he is... (GunPolicy.org)
Southern Sudan Faces Major Challenge in Disarming 150,000 Soldiers
2 July 2011
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
Southern Sudan is facing a major challenge of disarming more than 150,000 soldiers and easing them back to civilian life when it gains independence this week.
Southern Sudan Disarmament Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission chairman William Deng Deng said the new state wants to get rid of excess forces including the elderly, disabled and children.
"These are soldiers that are no longer useful after the war. We now need an organised, professional, controllable... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda,East Africa,Somalia,Ethiopia,Sudan,Kenya
East Africa: Put Down Your Gun, Pick Up Your Baton and Run for Peace
12 June 2011
East African (Nairobi)
As she posed for a picture with cattle rustlers long used to treating guns as toys, East African Community Deputy Secretary General for Political Federation Beatrice Kiraso made a provocative statement.
"The richest people in the world are not cattle keepers but industrialised nations," she told an audience of mainly cattle keeping communities during the 8th edition of the Moroto Peace Race recently.
You don't tell that to a community that lives and dies for cattle.... (GunPolicy.org)
Wave of Murders/Suicides Amongst Kenyan Police Under Study
16 May 2011
Capital FM-Radio (Nairobi)
NAIROBI, Kenya - Police Commissioner Mathew Iteere has commissioned a research to establish the cause of the stress levels amongst his officers, in the wake of increased cases of policemen killing their seniors or colleagues before they commit suicide.
This follows four recent incidents where police officers have either committed suicide or killed fellow officers - mainly their seniors - in various parts of the country.
The most recent incident occurred at the... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Officer Uses Service Rifle to Gun Down Boss, 2 Colleagues in Kenya
27 March 2011
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
A policeman, who shot dead two of his colleagues, stared into the camera without any remorse on Sunday morning.
Mr Martin Mutwiri, 28, was arrested as he boarded a Nairobi-bound matatu in Nanyuki town, in what detectives described as a bid to escape.
This was barely 10 hours after he shot the deputy commander of Naro Moru Police Station, Mr Hudson Orwenyo and a senior sergeant on Saturday evening.
Nyeri police boss Kirunya Limbitu said the suspect turned violent... (GunPolicy.org)
Olympic Champion Charged Over AK-47 Threat to Kill His Wife in Nairobi
30 December 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
Olympic marathon gold medallist Samuel Wanjiru was on Thursday charged with threatening to kill his wife, Tereza Njeri, with an illegal firearm.
The marathon champion was also charged with threatening to kill their househelp, Nancy Njoki, and wounding a security guard, Mr William Masinde.
Wanjiru denied the charges in a Nyahururu court and was released on a bond of Sh300,000, with a similar surety.
He is said to have committed the offences on Wednesday at his... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Policeman Kills 10, Hunting 'Woman Who Infected Him With HIV'
8 November 2010
Associated Press
A police officer who said he was looking for a woman who infected him with HIV rampaged through three bars in a central Kenyan town and killed 10 people, including two fellow officers, officials say.
The shooting spree happened late on Saturday in Siakago, 150km northeast of the capital Nairobi.
The suspect, who is in his 30s, went out on Saturday night looking for a female friend but couldn't find her, District Commissioner John Chelimo said on Sunday. The officer is... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Reforms Deliberately Leave Security Guards Unarmed in Kenya
15 September 2010
Business Daily (Nairobi)
Private security guards hoping to own forearms will have to undergo the same licensing procedures as civilians, the Police Reforms Implementation Committee has said.
The committee chairman, Mr Titus Naikuni, said the Private Security Industry Regulation Bill 2010, meant to regulate the private security sector would not automatically allow the arming of security guards.
The quest to arm private security guards - who are not members of the armed force - has opened... (GunPolicy.org)
Police, Even Security Industry Oppose Arming Private Guards in Kenya
13 September 2010
Business Daily (Nairobi)
Regulation of the private security sector is seen as a prerequisite to allowing guards to carry firearms as proposed in the Private Security Regulation Bill 2010, a measure seen as a deterrent to crime, but which could also become a security risk if arms filter to criminals.
Countries like Uganda, Morocco and Canada allow private guards to be armed under strict regulations. However, whether allowing guards to carry arms is or is not a crime deterrent measure is... (GunPolicy.org)
Give Police More Resources, Don't Risk Arming Security Guards in Kenya
9 September 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi), Editorial
NAIROBI — The job of a private security guard is most unenviable. These people work long hours, often in the dark of night, rarely with any kind of break, and they are hardly ever appreciated - until something untoward happens.
Most private security guards are ill-trained and invariably ill-paid. Indeed, for between Sh5,000 and Sh8,000 a month, they are supposed to lay down their lives in the line of duty.
So it does sound extremely callous to raise an alarm about... (GunPolicy.org)
Amnesty International Report Claims Kenya Abets Regional Gun Running
21 July 2010
Standard (Nairobi)
Kenya is one of the countries that have failed to control movement of weapons, which end up being used to commit war crimes.
A new report by Amnesty International shows how countries fail to control trafficking of deadly arms globally, leading to serious human rights violation.
The report exposed how transport companies registered in five countries ship arms by sea and air around the world.
The report, Deadly Movements: Arms Transportation Controls in the Arms Trade... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania,Kenya,Rwanda,Congo (DRC),Burundi,Somalia,Ethiopia,Djibouti,Eritrea
Great Lakes and Horn of Africa Nations Add Local Serial Numbers to Guns
3 July 2010
Citizen (Dar es Salaam)
The Regional Centre on Small Arms (Recsa) is procuring a database software to facilitate firearms marking, record keeping and trade of light weapons in the Great Lakes and Horn of Africa.
Speaking at a two-day regional workshop in Dar es Salaam on Thursday, the Recsa Monitoring and Evaluation head, Mr Nestory Mpembela, said with the database software, small arms and light weapons particulars would be at finger tips.
"This product will immensely and positively... (GunPolicy.org)
Alleged Gun Runner Caught in Kenya on Regular Arms Smuggling Trip
18 June 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — A man on the police list of gun runners in Kenya has been arrested and is being questioned in connection with Sunday's grenade attacks at Uhuru Park.
Undercover officers from the Special Crime Prevention Unit arrested him at a roadblock at Matuu on the Nairobi-Garissa highway on Thursday night.
They found him with seven guns and 27 rounds of ammunition.
He was travelling to Nairobi from Garissa on a bus.
The officers used gun detectors to uncover the... (GunPolicy.org)
Pirates, Submerged Cache of Guns & Ammo Hauled In by Kenya Police
19 May 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — A Malindi fisherman chanced upon a cache of arms on Wednesday, triggering a major security operation in the coastal town. The fisherman was setting nets to catch octopus in the Indian Ocean when he came across the weapons.
On Wednesday, police officers hauled the arsenal ashore and displayed it at Malindi Police Station as investigators tried to unravel who the owner is.
The weapons, packed in sacks, included 436 bullets, four rockets, one rocket launcher,... (GunPolicy.org)
Armed Robbers Target Bus Passengers, Smuggle Guns Into Kenyan Cities
16 May 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — Three people were arrested on Sunday after they were found smuggling two guns and ammunition into the city.
Detectives from the Special Crime Prevention Unit led by Mr Richard Katola intercepted the bus from Kisumu and recovered a Browning automatic and Tokarev pistols with eleven rounds of ammunition. The bus had just arrived in the city from Kisumu when police acting on a tip-off arrested the men.
Nairobi police boss Anthony Kibuchi said they were being... (GunPolicy.org)
East Africa,Uganda,Sudan,Ethiopia,Kenya
Kenya Police Promise Latest Gun Seizure Will Be Less Heavy-handed
7 May 2010
IRIN (UN News)
ISIOLO-SAMBURU (Kenya) - Thousands of security personnel have been deployed across northern Kenya to confiscate weapons after a voluntary disarmament exercise netted only a small fraction of the 50,000 guns thought to be in civilian hands.
Firearms are widespread among pastoralist communities in east Africa, where police are rare and cattle theft and intercommunal conflict is common. Similar operations are taking place in neighbouring Ethiopia, Sudan and Uganda.... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenyan Army Deployed to Seize Illegal Firearms After Close of Amnesty
27 April 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — The army has been deployed in Rift Valley to help mop up illegal firearms.
The soldiers were deployed to reinforce a forced disarmament operation following the expiry of an amnesty.
"The army moved in three weeks ago," a senior provincial administrator who requested not to be named told Nation.
The official said most of the soldiers had been deployed to border points to block suspects from skipping the country.
Soldiers have been spotted in Pokot North... (GunPolicy.org)
Sudan,Kenya,Tanzania,Ethiopia,Somalia,East Africa
Fix Security in East Africa and Nobody Will Bother Buying Guns Illegally
6 April 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi), Opinion
Internal Security minister George Saitoti and his permanent secretary Francis Kimemia were in their element when they oversaw the burning of 2,500 small arms at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi recently.
The minister even took the chance to dabble in a bit of politics. He promised -- as he has done before, on similar occasions -- to enact a law that mandates stiffer penalties for anyone found with illegal arms.
Even as the minister was declaring that illegal guns were going... (GunPolicy.org)
Election Officials Urge Suspension of Kenya Gun Seizure Campaign
5 April 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI, Kenya — The government has been urged to suspend the planned disarmament operation in Rift Valley to allow registration of voters.
Ms Bilha Kiptugen, the North Rift Interim Independent Electoral Commission coordinator, claimed that the operation would subject residents to harassment and disrupt the registration.
"Some residents on border points might not register as they are likely to flee to neighbouring countries to escape the disarmament exercise," said... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya, Uganda Guard Regional Borders in 'Ruthless' Drive to Seize Guns
4 April 2010
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA, Uganda — Kenya has set up checkpoints at its borders with Uganda, Sudan and Ethiopia ahead of a disarmament exercise to repossess illegal guns.
This has caused panic in the Northern Rift Valley, where cattle rustling is a common practice.
Reports indicate that hundreds of troops have been deployed at Suam, which borders with Kapchorwa and Bukwo districts of Uganda.
Kenyan army trucks were seen in Kitale and Kapenguria deploying soldiers.
Sources said UPDF... (GunPolicy.org)
Armed Violence, Insecurity Undermine Development in Kenya's Turkana
31 March 2010
Inter Press Service News Agency
TURKANA, Kenya — The children are afraid. There are armed bandits hiding with stolen animals in the thickets behind Nawoyaregae Primary School in Kaputir Location.
Cattle rustling and gory battles between the neighbouring Turkana and Pokot communities are the order of the day in this area, some 700 kilometres northwest of Nairobi. A long tradition of cattle raiding has been sharpened by competition over grazing land and water.
"The pupils cannot attend classes... (GunPolicy.org)
Drive to Seize Another 50,000 Illegal Guns in Kenya Amid Talk of 'Abuse'
24 March 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — Kenya's pastoralists have spent Sh1.1 billion to arm themselves over the years, it was revealed on Wednesday.
The figure is tallied from the number of firearms confiscated from them during the recent disarmament.
The guns are used for cattle rustling in which many people are killed and livestock stolen.
Internal Security Permanent Secretary Francis Kimemia said this while the minister, Prof George Saitoti, pledged to have a law enacted, with stiffer... (GunPolicy.org)
Retired Police, Soldiers Offer to Help Recover Illegal Guns in Kenya
22 March 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — Retired soldiers and police officers have offered to help recover illegal firearms in banditry-prone northern Kenya.
Kenya Veterans for Peace chief executive officer John Mathenge said members were willing to work with the provincial administration and other security agencies to collect intelligence crucial in the dismantling of small arms cartels in the country.
Mr Mathenge told a peace conference in Nakuru that involvement of veterans in disarmament... (GunPolicy.org)
Cattle Rustler Kept Waiting 7hrs to Give Up AK-47 in Kenya Gun Amnesty
17 March 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — A cattle rustler who travelled more than 200 kilometres to surrender an illegal firearm had to endure a long wait after he found the district commissioner's office deserted.
The 36-year-old thief travelled from Adurkoit village near the Kenya-Uganda border to the Kapenguria District headquarters to hand his AK-47 rifle to DC Alan Machari.
The man, who was escorted by Adurkoit sub-location assistant chief David Yarangiro and Warriors Rehabilitation... (GunPolicy.org)
Ten People Shot Dead in a Week by 'Paramilitary' Police In Kenya
15 March 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — The training and supervision of Administration Police officers is being questioned following recent shootings involving officers from the force.
Last week, a total of 10 people were killed by APs under unclear circumstances.
Seven taxi drivers were shot dead in Nairobi, a soldier was shot by another AP officer in Kericho and two men responding to a neighbour's distress call were killed in Gatundu.
Security experts blame the cases on the fact that APs do... (GunPolicy.org)
Shooting Assassination of 7 Unarmed Drivers Blamed on Nairobi Police
14 March 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — Paul Ngugi cannot help but thank God for saving his life from the merciless bullets of Administration Police officers that snuffed life out of his seven colleagues.
At around midnight, a client walked up to him at his Riruta base where he operates taxi business. The client, Mr Ngugi recalled, asked to be dropped at Dagoretti Corner, a 15-minute drive from Riruta.
"I reluctantly agreed to take him because of the standoff we had earlier had with our boda... (GunPolicy.org)
Pastoralists Fear Brutality, Torture as Kenyan Police Come for Their Guns
22 February 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — Pastoral communities in northern Kenya are apprehensive over the disarmament expected to start any time now.
A 70-day amnesty to surrender illegal arms by the pastoralists lapsed at the weekend, with 1,141 guns and 14,980 bullets having been handed over.
The government has also repossessed more than 500 guns initially issued to home guards in the region. This will ensure no one will be having a government-issued gun when the operation begins.
Residents of... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenyan TV Crew Buy AK-47 in Turkana, Easily Smuggle It Into Nairobi
9 February 2010
Standard (Nairobi)
Buying a gun and transporting the loaded weapon past numerous police checks without detection has never been that easy.
This is what KTN crew proved.
Reporters and a cameraman were on assignment in Turkana last week when they managed to not only buy an AK-47 rifle and bullets, but also transport it to Nairobi.
The reporters said the weapon was not discovered despite checks on the road from Turkana to Nairobi.
They said they initially bought the rifle with seven... (GunPolicy.org)
Large Seizures of Illegal Ammunition Stir Up Sleepy Kenyan Town
2 February 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — Despite its proximity to the capital and being the gateway to the world famous Maasai Mara game reserve, Narok has remained a quiet, dusty and sleepy town.
Not even the ongoing wrangling about the conservation of the Mau Forest have stirred it up.
But things changed on December 7, last year. On that day, Narok was thrown into the spotlight when a large cache of ammunition and military hardware were discovered right in the middle of the town.
Broadcast... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Find Another 30,000 Kenyan, Czech Bullets in Suspect's Home
1 February 2010
Associated Press
NAROK, Kenya - Kenya's police chief says officers have seized another cache of bullets at the premises of a man already facing charges for a separate arms seizure last year.
Matthew Iteere says police found the Kenyan and Czech-made bullets in a container at Munir Ahmed's garage. He says police seized two other containers but are yet to confirm their contents.
Most of the 30,000 bullets are Kenyan, Iteere says. Such bullets are made at a government plant and only... (GunPolicy.org)
In Sweep to Seize, Destroy Illegal Firearms, Kenya Police Kill Gun Owner
26 January 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — A man was killed and 13 others arrested in a police operation to recover illegal firearms in Trans Mara District.
District commissioner Albert Mwiritza said police shot the man who defied orders to surrender and instead fired his gun at the officers.
He said an AK-47 rifle and 16 rounds of ammunition were found on the deceased.
Among the 13 who were arrested was a taxi driver who was found with nine rounds of ammunition.
The contingent of regular and... (GunPolicy.org)
Deadline Extended by Kenyan Government to 'Mop Up' Illegal Guns
27 December 2009
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
The government has extended the deadline on the general amnesty issued to pastoralists to surrender illegal firearms.
In a statement to the press on Sunday, Internal Security minister Prof George Saitoti said the amnesty has been extended to January 20, 2010.
The minister said his action was prompted by the good response by members of the pastoralist communities on the earlier amnesty that was issued by the Government.
Professor Saitoti said that he expected that the... (GunPolicy.org)
Civilians, Reservists Surrender Assault Weapons in Kenya Gun Ban Drive
21 December 2009
Kenyan Broadcasting Service
Residents of Iisiolo district have surrendered 177 assault rifles to the government in a bid to beat the amnesty period deadline.
Security personnel have in the past two weeks also recovered 7,939 rounds of ammunition from civilians while Kenya police reservists have handed back 217 guns issued to them by the government.
Isiolo DC Mr. James Mwaura commended the residents for surrendering illegal firearms and expressed optimism that those in possession of illegal... (GunPolicy.org)
Race to Smuggle, Buy Assault Weapons as Kenya Pastoralists Re-arm
20 December 2009
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI, Kenya — The demand for automatic weapons in Turkana, Samburu and Pokot has created a huge market and this could explain the recent arms seizures in the country.
Fuelled by persistent droughts, the arms race among the pastoral communities in Northern Kenya has intensified in the last decade with almost 95 per cent of households said to own a firearm.
A two-decade study of the three communities says that by the early 1990s, most households had a... (GunPolicy.org)
High-level Corruption Alleged in Kenya Police Gun Trafficking Scandal
13 December 2009
Standard (Nairobi)
Hardly a week after the Cabinet approved police reforms the Administration Police is in the eye of a new storm over an illegal arms haul.
The force, which has been adversely mentioned in various reports that accuse it of gross human rights violations that include murder and rape during and after the 2007 General Election is fending off allegations that its top brass is involved in clandestine movement of arms.
The centre of the new storm is force commandant Kinuthia... (GunPolicy.org)
British Army Gear Among Large Ammo Cache and Guns Seized in Kenya
10 December 2009
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — A Kenyan working at a British Army base has been arrested and detained in connection with the huge cache of weapons seized by police in Narok.
Mr John Wandeto, a civilian, was arrested as businessman Ishmael Munir and a senior Administration Police officer, Superintendent Joseph Maritim, were charged in court for illegally possessing government ammunition.
Mr Wandeto, who is employed at the military base in Nanyuki, was picked up by detectives on Wednesday... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Owner, Police Armourer Arrested Over 100,000-bullet Cache in Kenya
9 December 2009
East African Standard (Nairobi)
A couple was found with more than 100,000 bullets and military gear in their house at Narok town.
Four rifles and two pistols were also found in Mr Munir Ahmed’s house. A seventh pistol was found on his waist when he was arrested in Embakasi, Nairobi, on Monday night.
The seized bullets are usually used in sub-machine guns. Yesterday, police displayed two telescopic machines, five pairs of military boots, assorted British military uniforms, 20 army bags, 20... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Arrest Businessman with 'Licensed' Guns, 100,000 Bullets in Nairobi
8 December 2009
Associated Press
NAIROBI, Kenya -- Kenyan police on Tuesday said they arrested a suspected weapons smuggler with up to 100,000 bullets and an assortment of guns, a huge cache in a country with stringent gun laws.
Police recovered the weapons and ammunition in two raids carried out late Monday on the suspect's house in the capital, Nairobi, and on a business site in the western town of Narok, Police Commissioner Matthew Iteere said.
Ever since violent clashes killed more than 1,000... (GunPolicy.org)
Government to Seize, Destroy Illegal Guns in Kenya's Eastern, North Rift
20 November 2009
Kenya Broadcasting Corporation
The government will mop out all illegal firearms in the insecurity prone areas of North Rift and Upper Eastern parts at the country in order to improve security in those areas.
The minister for state in charge of internal security and provincial Administration, Prof. George Saitoti said over the years, the country had experienced proliferation of small and light fire arms due to its porous borders with her unstable neighbours.
He said prolonged drought and instability... (GunPolicy.org)
Burundi,Kenya,Rwanda,Uganda,Tanzania,East Africa
We Must Eliminate the Menace of Illegal Guns in East Africa
11 November 2009
Observer (Kampala), Opinion
During the ceremonies to mark the 10th anniversary of the re-birth of the East African Community, 3,500 small arms were destroyed in a gesture of fighting the menace of illicit small arms and light weapons.The symbolic destruction of the unlicensed weapons fed into the theme of the anniversary celebrations, which was: 'Peace and security for stability and development.'
Realising the magnitude of the menace of small arms in illegal hands, the delegates to a conference... (GunPolicy.org)
Central Africa,East Africa,Kenya,Rwanda,Somalia,Sudan,Uganda,Burundi,Congo (DRC)
Small Arms Control Group Decries 'Huge' Proliferation of Guns in Africa
3 November 2009
Xinhua
NAIROBI — The Regional Center on Small Arms (RECSA) has decried the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the Great Lakes region, Horn of Africa and bordering states.
RECSA Executive Secretary Francis Sang noted that the center was working in collaboration with the UN Regional Center for Peace and Disarmament in Africa to promote disarmament.
To address this problem, he said, the governments should support the national, sub-regional, regional and... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya 'A Nation on a Timebomb' of Illegal Guns, Death Penalty Mooted
1 November 2009
Standard (Nairobi)
More than 130,000 guns are in the wrongs hands. The Government and experts are unanimous the country is sitting on a time bomb, which could explode any time.
Head of the Kenya National Focal Point on Small Arms and Light Weapons David Kimaiyo warns the problem could reach unmanageable levels.
"We have to address this issue once and for all, otherwise it might end up causing a serious social, economic and political problem," he warns.
Past efforts to mop up and burn... (GunPolicy.org)
