MP seeks answers on killings, muggings and burglaries in Garissa

ODM-nominated MP Umulkheir Harun has demanded an explanation for the escalating insecurity in Garissa and its environs.

The last two weeks have seen people killed, mugged, stabbed and shops broken into by armed criminals.

On Wednesday, the MP sought to know how the departmental committee on Administration and Internal Security planned to address the problem.

She further sought to know measures taken by the government to ensure effective collaboration between national authorities, county government, and security agencies in enhancing community policing, intelligence gathering and response mechanisms.

She said insecurity in the town has spiralled out of control, impacting the safety and well-being of area residents.

On Thursday night, armed criminals on a motorcycle stole Sh1.3 million from an M-Pesa shop in the Dobale, Bula Medina.

A day earlier a person was stabbed to death by unknown people in the outskirts of Garissa town after he refused to surrender his phone.

Cases of women being robbed in the wee hours while going to the market and while going back home have also been on the rise.

“Honorable Speaker, the situation is so dire that businesses have been closing as early as 6 pm, mostly affecting people who reside in the outskirts of Garissa town. This disturbing trend has negatively impacted the peace and safety of the region as well as economic activities, education and health services,” she said.

Umulkheir said it is the primary responsibility of the national government, all relevant local authorities and security agencies to join hands and work out a coherent strategy against this menace to restore peace and ensure a secure environment for the residents of Garissa County.

Speaking to the Star on the phone later, the MP said they intend to hold a security meeting that will bring together all the county's leaders and other relevant stakeholders.

Gabriel Tongoyo, chair of Administration and Internal Security, agreed to provide a detailed report on Wednesday next week.

He further promised to convene a meeting with DCI officers.

Last Thursday, North Eastern Regional Commissioner John Otieno convened a meeting that brought together security apparatus and other stakeholders among them chiefs and their assistants to deliberate on restoring sanity.

In the meeting, Otieno said fifteen youths aged 15 to 20 suspected to be involved in the insecurity incidences, have so far been arrested in Garissa town and its environs, adding that the operation will continue until sanity is restored.

“It is a pity that a small town like Garissa can experience a wave of insecurity when we have more than enough security personnel. We have over 600 security personnel and yet we are still experiencing such kind of incidences,” he said.

Governor Jama said the county is already dealing with related issues including the al-Shabaab menace.

He expressed concern that the issue might escalate into inter-clan conflicts.