Security operation launched in Marsabit, Isiolo counties

A special security operation dubbed ‘Operation Ondoa Jangili’ has been launched to flush out criminal elements within Marsabit and Isiolo Counties.

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja said the targeted areas are within Sololo, Moyale, North Horr, and Merti Sub-Counties, which are hideouts used by the Ethiopian rebel group Oromo Liberation Army (OLA), to facilitate its cross-border criminal enterprise.

The operation comes in the wake of reports about the alleged abduction of five chiefs by suspected members of Al-Shabaab in Elwak, Mandera County. Kanja emphasised that the operation aims to protect lives, and property, and preserve peace within the region.

The announcement comes in the wake of reports of the alleged abduction of five chiefs in Elwak, Mandera County.

“Therefore today, pursuant to the National Police Service’s mandate to protect life and property and preserve peace, special teams of the National Police Service have officially launched the first phase of ‘Operation Ondoa Jangili’ within Marsabit and Isiolo Counties to flush out OLA criminal elements hiding in Sololo, Moyale, North Horr, Merti Sub- Counties and its environs.” He stated.

OLA has been accused of being involved in cross-border criminal activities, trafficking illegal arms and narcotics, human smuggling, dealing in contraband goods, and illegal mining.

Other criminal activities include instigating tribal conflicts and kidnapping for ransom, posing a serious threat to Kenya’s national security.

“Further, the militia group has taken advantage of close family and cultural ties between the Borana of Kenya and Oromo of Ethiopia to infiltrate and hide among the populations in Marsabit and Isiolo Counties” said Kanja in a statement.

The rebels he regreted continue to commit atrocities causing untold suffering to communities living along the Kenya-Ethiopia border who have endured intimidation, forceful takeover of property, and sexual assault against women and girls.

He further appealed to residents in the affected areas to remain calm and cooperate with the National Police Service during the operation.

“In the spirit of community policing, we appeal to the local communities in the aforementioned operation areas to remain calm, carry on with their daily activities without fear, and cooperate with the National Police Service. We reiterate our commitment to serve and protect all persons and their property” he said.