Nairobi, Kenya| Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has refuted claims that recent arrests of youths in Isiolo were politically driven, asserting that the security operation was a targeted crackdown on drug smuggling and cross-border crime.
Speaking at the launch of the Report on the Status of Drugs and Substance Use among Universities in Kenya at Bomas of Kenya, Nairobi, Murkomen clarified that law enforcement agencies acted on intelligence to dismantle criminal networks involved in drug trafficking from Ethiopia into Kenya.
Security Operations Guided by Intelligence
Murkomen addressed concerns raised by some local leaders following President William Ruto’s recent visit to Isiolo, who suggested the arrests were politically motivated.
He dismissed these allegations, emphasizing that national security matters are handled with professionalism and objectivity.
“The operation conducted by the National Police in Marsabit and Isiolo was based on intelligence,” he stated.
“Some individuals claimed young people were arrested after the President’s visit, but we do not play games with national security. We take it very seriously and act based on facts.”
The Interior CS underscored that Kenya’s security forces are focused on neutralizing threats posed by organized criminal syndicates operating along the country’s porous borders.
Crackdown on Cross-Border Drug Syndicates
Murkomen revealed that the security operation led to the arrest of individuals linked to the Oromo Liberation Group (OLF), a faction suspected of smuggling narcotics into Kenya.
The drugs, he said, were being stored in Marsabit and Isiolo before being distributed to other parts of the country.
Among those apprehended were professionals, including medical practitioners, allegedly aiding the illicit drug trade by facilitating trafficking and sales.
Continued Security Operations
The government, Murkomen assured, remains committed to dismantling criminal networks that threaten national security and public safety.
He reiterated that security agencies would sustain operations to eliminate drug smuggling and cross-border crime.
“We will not relent in our efforts to ensure criminals operating within our borders are brought to justice,” he affirmed.
The crackdown comes amid heightened concerns over rising drug abuse in the country, particularly among young people.
The government has vowed to intensify anti-narcotics operations as part of its broader strategy to combat drug trafficking and organized crime.
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