The National Police Service (NPS) has launched a crackdown dubbed ‘Operation Ondoa Jangili’ targeting the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) in Marsabit and Isiolo counties.
In a statement on Monday, February 3, the Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja said the police have begun intense security operations in Sololo, Moyale, North Horr, and Merti Sub-Counties to flush out the militia.
“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,” read the statement in part.
According to the Police IG, the militia has been involved in trafficking illegal arms and narcotics, human smuggling, dealing in contraband goods, and conducting cross-border incursions.
OLA has also been involved in illegal mining, instigating tribal conflicts, and kidnapping for ransom.
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Kanja also noted that 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 while committing atrocities
The IG called on Kenyans living in Isiolo and Marsabit to remain calm and go on with their daily activities as the police conduct a security 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,” Kanja added.
