by Ali Abdi

An operation to flush out illegal weapons has started in northern and eastern Kenya.

More than 500 joint security personnel, including 150 General Service Unit officers, are in Isiolo, Samburu East, Laisamis, Garba-Tulla, Tigania East, Igembe North and Imenti North to conduct the operation.

On Friday, the security team recovered three guns and 403 rounds of ammunition in Isiolo and arrested seven suspects — five in Isiolo and two in Imenti North.

Isiolo OCPD Samwel Koskei said since Monday, the security team had recovered 14 rifles and arrested several suspects involved in the conflict that has left more than 200 dead since December 2007.

Yesterday, police raided Kambi Garba village, about 4km from Isiolo town, and got two AK-47 rifles, a carbine rifle and bullets.

"Some of the guns were hidden under beds while others were buried in compounds. We have intensified the search that would yield more weapons," said Koskei.

He said search for weapons, stolen animals, and suspected rustlers would be extended to all districts in the region.

On Wednesday, 10 police reservists and 14 others who include a council lor and two chiefs were arrested on suspicion of engaging in cattle rustling in Isiolo.

Eastern Provincial Police Officer Marcus Ochola said the 14 could not account for bullets issued by police.

Ochola said they might have used their weapons in committing crimes in Isiolo and neighbouring districts.

"If any Government officer (home guards) cannot account for how they used their fire arms, then they should be disarmed and arrested," he said.