MP John Ariko to introduce legislation in parliament to compensate victims of banditry attacks
Turkana South Legislator John Ariko Namoit has announced plans to introduce legislation in parliament to compel the government to compensate victims of banditry attacks.
This is in an effort to ensure that all bandit victims are adequately paid, including those who have lost loved ones and possessions, primarily livestock.
“I will sponsor a bill in parliament to ensure that when the government fails to take care of the citizens and their property, it must be able to provide compensation,” Namoit said.
Namoit expressed his condolences to the 11 families who lost loved ones, including 8 security personnel and 3 civilians, during a burial ceremony in Lokichar.
Senator James Lomenen of Turkana has asked the government to launch security operations in Turkana, Tiaty, and West Pokot counties to remove any illegal firearms.
Maalim Mohamed, the Rift Valley Regional Coordinator, warned of a huge operation last week to flush out the bandits and assist restore law and order in the region. This comes after President William Ruto issued an order to deal decisively with bandits.
“It will not be business as usual. We’re going to smoke them out of their hideouts,” Mr Maalim, who is to lead a team of senior security officials in touring the area in Turkana East, said.
“What happened is an act of cowardice but it will not deter us from bringing these criminals to book,” added Mr Maalim.
Police spokesman Bruno Shioso said additional police officers have been dispatched to reinforce those troops on the ground.