•Two suspects arrested as security agencies tighten crackdown on cross-border criminal networks
Moyale, Kenya| A coordinated multi-agency security operation in Moyale has led to the arrest of two individuals and the recovery of a cache of illegal firearms and narcotics, in a significant blow to suspected cross-border criminal activities in the region.
The operation, carried out by a joint team of law enforcement officers, unfolded in two separate locations—Butiye and Odda—both situated within Moyale Sub-County, near the Kenya-Ethiopia border.
Authorities say the raids were intelligence-led and part of an ongoing effort to curb illicit trade and arms trafficking in the area, which has historically been a hotspot for such activity.
In the Butiye area, officers raided the residence of Adan Jilo, where they recovered one AK-47 assault rifle, a magazine containing three rounds of 7.62 x 39mm ammunition, and 16 kilograms of cannabis sativa (bhang) concealed within the premises. Jilo was promptly arrested and taken into custody.
In a parallel operation conducted in the Odda area, Toto Issack Dika was apprehended after a search of her home revealed a second AK-47 rifle, a magazine with two rounds of 7.62 x 39mm ammunition, and 18 kilograms of cannabis sativa.
The weapons and narcotics were carefully documented and secured by officers on the ground.
The two suspects, along with the recovered items, were transported to Moyale Police Station, where they are currently being held.
Authorities confirmed that the suspects are undergoing formal processing ahead of their arraignment in court.
“This operation is part of sustained efforts to dismantle networks involved in the illegal trafficking of arms and narcotics, which pose a serious threat to national security,” said a senior police official familiar with the operation.
“We remain vigilant and committed to rooting out such elements from our communities.” They added.
Security agencies continue to warn that the porous nature of the border between Kenya and Ethiopia has made the area vulnerable to transnational criminal networks.
The government has reiterated its commitment to enhancing surveillance and conducting frequent operations to neutralize such threats.
Investigations are ongoing to establish the source and intended destination of the seized firearms and drugs, and whether the suspects are part of a larger syndicate.
The successful raid underscores the critical role of inter-agency cooperation in addressing complex security challenges and protecting citizens from the dangers posed by organized crime.
Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to security agencies.
More updates are expected as the case develops and the suspects are formally charged.
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