Security beefed in Garissa, Isiolo following inter-community clashes

The Government has beefed up security along Garba Tula in Isiolo and Benane in Garissa Counties after clashes erupted last month between Somali and Borana communities over grazing fields and water points that have left more than ten people dead and several injured.

Speaking during a peace declaration meeting in Benane Trading Centre, Lagdera Sub-County Commissioner, Jackson Olechuta, said that more police officers have been deployed to Madina, Kampi Samaki, Togocho, Eldere, Bulo, Barkuke and Chachu to boost security and ensure law and order is maintained.

Olechuta added that those breaking the law or found inciting either of the communities even as drought continues to bite in the area will be dealt with firmly by the law.

He urged the elders, Sheikhs, Youth and Women to continue to maintain peace and promised that livestock left behind in Isiolo County when the owners fled the clashes a month ago in Garba Tula will be given back to them.

Garissa Governor, NathifJama, said he was in talks with Isiolo County leadership to work out on a peaceful formula that will ensure that there was a permanent solution to the matter urging Borana community to also declare peace the way the Somali did in Benane for a peaceful co-existence.

Governor Jama at the same time cautioned aspirants seeking various seats within the county to conduct their campaigns with decorum to avoid causing disharmony among different communities, adding that security apparatus should monitor politicians issuing inflammatory statements during the campaigns and stern action taken against them.

Written by Ronald Kibet