On 16th May, 2008, we reported that the Mt. Elgon criminal gang leader, Wycliffe Matakwei had been killed together with his three accomplices.

The operation team recovered 3 assault Rifles and assorted rounds of ammunition during the operation.

Doubts have been raised as to his death from various quotas, with other people claiming that he had called to say that he was alive.

We wish to inform the public that we have conclusively confirmed the death of Wycliffe Matakwei. The Forensic Finger Print Report has come out. This is in addition to the identification earlier made by his wife and neighbours.

Following the death of Matakwei, seven militias have so far surrendered. Four surrendered on Sunday morning the 18th day of May 2008 and handed in one rifle which had earlier been stolen from the police.

This morning 3 militias surrendered and handed in 3 assault Rifles.

The Kenya Police wishes to inform the public that the joint security operation in Mt. Elgon is still on course and making progress on the key aim of restoration of law and order. We the police have a constitutional mandate to protect the lives and properties of the people of this republic and ensure that law and order is maintained and hence peace is preserved. Each and every Kenyan who has any input to add on maintenance of law and order in his capacity as an individual or as an organization is expected to do so. Let us be patriotic and productive to our nation and avoid statements which can make us lose whatever gains that we have achieved in maintaining law and order. We are doing our level best to undertake the operation professionally.

The remaining members of the criminal gang who are still in the forest are advised to surrender peacefully before we catch up with them. The amnesty is still on and in any case they are assured of being treated fairly and according to the law.

We urge Kenyans to give us moral support to ensure that the people of Mt. Elgon regain their peace and continue with their normal lives and nation building.

(Charles O. Wahong’o)
FOR: COMMISSIONER OF POLICE

20th May, 2008