Kenya Destroys Over 6,000 Illegal Firearms, Ruto Pledges Police Reforms and Regional Security Cooperation

By Douglas Jones 

Kajiado County, Kenya – June 15, 2025

The Government of Kenya has destroyed more than 6,000 illegal firearms recovered between 2022 and 2025 through public amnesty programs, community disarmament campaigns, and targeted security operations. The exercise, held in Kajiado County, was overseen by President William Ruto, who reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening national and regional security.

President Ruto described the widespread presence of illegal weapons as “a direct assault on our safety, stability, and peace,” warning that such arms in the wrong hands pose a grave threat to both citizens and state institutions. He called on individuals still in possession of illegal firearms to surrender them voluntarily.

“We cannot have peace in Kenya if our neighbors are unstable,” Ruto said, emphasizing the need for regional collaboration. “Security in one country benefits the entire region. We must harmonize policies and work together.”

As part of broader national security reforms, President Ruto announced plans to professionalize the Kenya Police Service. He outlined several key areas of reform, including:

• Modernizing police equipment and improving working conditions
• Providing comprehensive insurance and proper housing for officers
• Rooting out rogue officers and holding them accountable

The president pledged that his government would protect Kenyans from police abuses while also supporting law enforcement officers who serve with integrity.

Saturday’s firearm destruction is the latest in a series of government-led initiatives aimed at curbing the proliferation of small arms and enhancing public safety across the country.