Acting Inspector General of Police, Gilbert Masengeli, has made a stern call to police chiefs in North Eastern Kenya, urging them to work closely with stakeholders to eradicate human and drug trafficking in the region. During his speech at Garissa Police Station, Masengeli emphasized the importance of collaboration between regional security teams and various stakeholders to eliminate these illegal activities that continue to plague the region.
“These things must come to an end at all costs. This is directed at the regional security team, which must coordinate with all other stakeholders to ensure that we completely eradicate drugs from our country and borders,” said Masengeli. He also stressed the importance of holding everyone accountable, stating, “Anybody who violates the rules, even if it’s my child or brother, should not be spared.”
Masengeli expressed his gratitude to the public for their cooperation with security forces, highlighting their crucial role in maintaining safety and reporting illegal activities. His remarks came at the conclusion of a three-day tour of the region, where he assessed the security situation and met with various security formations.
The acting police chief identified several challenges that the region’s security officers are grappling with, including smuggling of contraband goods, drug trafficking, and illegal immigration. Garissa has become a major conduit for bhang smuggled from Ethiopia to Nairobi, contributing to a rise in drug consumption among the youth.
Masengeli warned of the long-term impact of allowing drugs to enter the country, noting that it not only affects the current generation but also has repercussions for future generations. He cautioned police officers against engaging in corruption, stating that severe actions would be taken against any officers found involved in illegal activities.
The government had announced plans in February last year to reopen the Kenya-Somalia border points in Mandera, Liboi, and Kiunga in phases over a 90-day period. However, these plans were halted due to a surge in attacks in the region. Kenya had closed its official border crossings with Somalia in 2012 to prevent incursions by al-Shabaab insurgents, but the closures have not entirely stopped illegal crossings or smuggling.
Addressing the ongoing threat from al-Shabaab terrorists, Masengeli noted the need for increased security presence in border areas. During his tour, he observed that security operations are spaced too far apart, leaving some areas vulnerable. He emphasized the need for a sustained security crackdown in the town to restore order, following a series of incidents that have made headlines, including enforced disappearances and gang violence.
In recent weeks, Garissa has faced a wave of insecurity, with incidents involving gangs armed with knives and other crude weapons who have been threatening, attacking, and sometimes killing civilians. Masengeli urged the security apparatus to maintain their crackdown until stability is restored.
Addressing the issue of forced disappearances, Masengeli urged the public to distinguish between legal arrests, where suspects are processed at police stations and presented in court, and abductions. His comments came in response to growing concerns about the handling of suspects in the region.
Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) boss Mohamed Amin also commended the security officers working in North Eastern Kenya, acknowledging the difficult conditions they face daily. Amin joined Masengeli in praising the dedication and teamwork of the officers, having toured Mandera and Wajir before arriving in Garissa.
“I really want to join the Acting IG in commending the good work the officers are doing. We started a tour in Mandera, then came to Wajir, and I must admit we are really impressed by the work being done by all officers across the services,” Amin said.
He emphasized the importance of fostering strong relationships between security forces and local communities, urging officers to continue engaging with the public and other government agencies to ensure law and order are upheld in the region.
As the authorities continue their efforts to combat crime and insecurity in North Eastern Kenya, the involvement of all stakeholders, including local communities, remains critical to achieving sustainable peace and security.
