This archive report was first published on 9 July 2021.
On Thursday, Inspector General Hillary Mutyambai announced the deployment of a contingent of General Service Unit officers to Marsabit County to restore order amidst escalating community conflicts.
The move comes after 7 people were reportedly killed in recent clashes between two dominant communities in the area, which security agencies believe have undertones of politics.
“The government expresses dismay and deep concern over protracted animosity between communities in Marsabit County. We have deployed a multi-agency team of highly specialized security officers led by the General Service Unit with firm and uncompromising instructions to restore peace and order,” Mutyambai said.
According to Mutyambai, a stern warning has been issued to perpetrators of the criminal activities perpetuating chaos in the county, urging them to either hand themselves in to the nearest police station or face the wrath of the law.
“We urge all peace-loving Marsabit residents to collaborate and work alongside us. We shall not rest until the last criminal is apprehended,” he said.
Despite years of efforts by leaders and security agencies to restore peace between the two clans, the tension between them has hit a boiling point, with members of either clan blaming the other for the violence.
Inspector General Mutyambai emphasized the need for residents in the county to embrace and explore diplomatic and lawful ways of conflict resolutions.
