For the past two years, there have been reports of mysterious helicopters sighted hovering over the rugged terrain of Baringo and Samburu counties. These low-flying aircraft, often observed in areas known for banditry and lawlessness, have stirred speculation and concern among local residents and authorities.
Questions abound regarding the identity of the helicopter operators, the purpose of their flights, and the cargo they transport. Authorities are particularly troubled by the helicopters’ apparent ability to evade radar detection and law enforcement efforts, raising fears about their potential involvement in criminal activities.
Efforts to unravel the mystery have intensified, with Rift Valley Regional Coordinator Abdi Hassan issuing a directive to shoot down the helicopters if sighted. The aircraft, described as blue and white in color, are suspected of aiding criminal operations around Malaso Valley in Samburu County.
Local residents have long suspected the helicopters of being involved in criminal activities, including the supply of weapons to criminal gangs. Last year, the government banned low-altitude flights over troubled areas in response to reports linking influential figures to the use of helicopters to transport weapons to criminal gangs.
In light of the escalating security concerns, Mr. Hassan has urged residents in bandit-infested zones to vacate the areas to allow security forces to conduct operations effectively. However, challenges such as impassable roads and poor network coverage continue to hamper security personnel’s ability to respond to attacks swiftly.
Efforts to address these challenges are underway, with initiatives such as road rehabilitation projects aimed at improving infrastructure to facilitate security operations. Despite these efforts, the mystery surrounding the helicopters’ activities and their potential impact on security in the region remains unresolved.
