The government has declared several areas in Laikipia, Meru, and Isiolo counties as security disturbed and dangerous.
In a gazette notice dated 26th March, the interior cabinet secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen, stated that the directives take effect and will remain in force for 30 days.
“IN EXERCISE of the powers conferred by section 106 (1) of the National Police Service Act, 2011, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, in consultation with the National Security Council, has made a declaration on the 26th March, 2026, declaring parts of Laikipia, Meru and Isiolo Counties as security disturbed and dangerous,” read the notice.
Government List Areas Across Three Counties Under Watch
The notice has named specific locations in three counties that are now considered high-risk security zones.
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In Laikipia County, the affected areas fall within Laikipia North and include Mugogo Forest and surrounding localities such as Mugogodo, Sieku, Makuriani, and Doldol.
These areas have in the past been associated with insecurity linked to banditry and conflicts over grazing land.
Meru County has also been significantly affected, with parts of Tigania East and Igembe North sub-counties included in the declaration.
In Tigania East, the listed areas include Mlima Rasta, Mlima Lombolio, Mworontoi Belt, and sections of the Nyambene Game Reserve. In Igembe North, the Ngatho Dam area has been singled out.
In Isiolo County, the declaration targets parts of Isiolo North sub-county, including Sarova Game Reserve, Lowarengishu Hills, Mutunyi Hills, and Loruku Hills.
The ministry has also clarified that the notice takes immediate effect at 6PM on March 26 and may be withdrawn or be extended
“This notice shall take effect on the 26th March, 2026 as from 6.00 p.m., for a period of thirty (30) days and may, at any time be withdrawn or continued in force for such further period as the Cabinet Secretary may, in each case, by notice in the Gazette direct,” read part of the notice.
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Insecurity in parts of Laikipia, Meru, and Isiolo has been a persistent challenge, often driven by armed banditry, inter-community conflicts, and disputes over land and natural resources.
In Laikipia North, areas such as Mugogodo, Doldol, and Sieku have historically experienced cattle rustling and attacks by armed groups targeting pastoralist communities. The forested terrain provides cover for criminals, making policing difficult.
In Meru County, Tigania East and Igembe North sub-counties face periodic conflicts between local communities, often over grazing land and water points. The Nyambene Hills, Mlima Rasta, and Mworontoi Belt have also been cited as hideouts for armed actors who raid isolated settlements. Ngatho Dam and the surrounding areas have seen similar security challenges, including theft and small-scale armed attacks.
Isiolo North, including Lowarengishu Hills, Mutunyi Hills, and Loruku, experiences insecurity linked to banditry and pastoralist movement across county boundaries.
The remote and rugged terrain complicates surveillance and response, allowing criminal elements to operate with relative impunity.
