Garissa County Banditry Incidents

Garissa County in northeastern Kenya continues to grapple with high levels of insecurity, driven by a volatile mix of banditry and Islamist militancy. The region, which borders Somalia, has long been seen as a gateway for Al‑Shabaab operatives, who exploit the porous border to launch attacks and establish makeshift camps. In recent years, security forces have stepped up operations—most recently in June 2025, when the elite Special Operations Group (SOG) engaged and killed four suspected Al‑Shabaab militants in the Najo and Guracho areas. The Star+3The Star+3Mwakilishi+3 Meanwhile, gun battles and raids have also exposed the continued presence of armed bandits carrying assault rifles. The Eastleigh Voice News
The roots of Garissa’s instability run deep. In April 2015, Al‑Shabaab mounted one of its most notorious strikes in Kenya by launching a mass shooting at Garissa University College, killing 148 students. The Guardian+1 Shortly afterwards, in May of the same year, police officers were ambushed by militants—a stark reminder of how entrenched the terror network was in the area. Wikipedia Analysts point to a combination of factors fueling the insecurity: the proximity to Somalia, historical marginalization, and weak ties between local communities and the state. CHRIPS Such conditions have made recruitment for extremist groups easier, while at the same time creating distrust between residents and counter-terrorism forces.
Despite these hurdles, security agencies are pushing back. In late 2024 and early 2025, Kenyan authorities conducted coordinated raids on suspected Al‑Shabaab hideouts, recovering rifles, bomb-making materials, and communications equipment. Mwakilishi+3National Police Service+3The Star+3 The National Police Service has credited intelligence-led operations with disrupting planned attacks and dismantling terror cells, while calling for sustained community cooperation. Yet, residents remain worried—not only about terror, but also about rising armed crime in Garissa town, prompting county officials to vow large-scale crackdowns. Kenya News
Moving forward, experts argue that long-term peace in Garissa will depend on more than force: there is a growing need for inclusive development, community engagement, and sustained efforts to rebuild trust. Strengthening local institutions, providing opportunities for youth, and addressing governance gaps are seen as critical to reducing the appeal of militant ideology. As security operations intensify, many in Garissa hope that the next chapter will be one of stability rather than fear.