Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has arrived in Todonyang, along the Kenya-Ethiopia border, to assess the security situation following a deadly attack by a heavily armed Ethiopian militia. The attack, which took place on Saturday, has escalated tensions along the border, with reports indicating that 20 fishermen may have been killed.
The militia, believed to be from Ethiopia’s Dassanech community, launched an assault on areas near the Omo River, indiscriminately firing at Kenyan fishermen. Although the government has confirmed the attack, it has refrained from disclosing the number of fatalities, urging caution against spreading unverified information.
Speaking to journalists on Sunday, Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo warned against sensationalizing the incident and emphasized the importance of relying on verified information.
“This incident took place on the Ethiopian side of the border, and our security teams, including the Regional Commissioner, County Commissioner, and County Intelligence team, are actively working to establish full details,” said Omollo. “We will provide an official report in due time, and I urge the public to avoid speculation on such a serious security matter.”
Earlier Sunday, the National Police Service (NPS) also issued a statement, confirming that an investigation was underway. The Office of the Inspector-General noted that the Turkana County Security team, in collaboration with Ethiopian security authorities, is on the ground verifying reports and working to determine the cause of the attack.
The attack has sparked renewed concerns about cross-border security and the long-standing conflict between the Dassanech community and Kenyan residents in Turkana. These border tensions have historically stemmed from disputes over resources, particularly fishing and grazing land.
The government’s response is being closely watched, with calls for enhanced security measures to prevent further attacks. CS Murkomen’s visit underscores the urgency of the situation, as authorities work to establish the facts and determine appropriate action.
As the investigation continues, local leaders and residents remain on high alert, fearing possible retaliation or further violence. The government has assured the public that all necessary steps will be taken to safeguard Kenyan lives and territorial integrity.
More updates are expected as security teams complete their assessments.
