Parts of Tana River Declared ‘Disturbed and Dangerous’ Amid Escalating Clashes
By Bruhan Makong | Nairobi, Kenya | October 12, 2024
The government has declared multiple areas in Tana River County as security-disturbed and dangerous following intensifying inter-clan clashes that have left at least 14 people dead in the past week.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki announced the move on Friday after consultations with the National Security Council, citing the need to restore law and order under Section 106 (1) of the National Police Service Act, 2011.
The declaration, published in Gazette Notice No. 13181 dated October 11, 2024, covers 12 locations across Bangale and Tana North sub-counties: Madogo, Areri, Saka, Sala, Mororo, Mbalambala, Hirimani, Hosingo, Dukanotu, Chewele, Nanighi, and Bura. The order is effective for 30 days but may be extended if necessary.
This notice shall take effect from 6:30 p.m. on October 11, 2024, for a period of 30 days and may, at any time, be withdrawn or extended by notice in the Gazette, CS Kindiki stated.
Political Figures Questioned Amid Violence
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) interrogated three local lawmakers in connection with the unrest: Garsen MP Ali Wario, Bura MP Yakub Adow, and Bangale Ward MCA Mohammed Jibril, alongside former Woman Representative Rehema Hassan.
DCI Director Mohamed Amin also summoned Tana River Governor Dhadho Godana and Galole MP Said Hiribae, who had failed to appear on Friday, for questioning.
Clashes Triggered by Resource Disputes
The violence began on October 4 in the Anole area, where a shooting left five people dead. A retaliatory attack in Nanighi Village claimed four more lives and destroyed several traditional manyattas. Preliminary reports suggest that the conflict arose from a dispute over access to a local watering point.
Security Operations Intensified
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja Kirocho confirmed that the National Police Service (NPS), in partnership with the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), has ramped up operations to restore calm and prevent further bloodshed.