NAIROBI, Kenya, Mar 05 — The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has petitioned the Independent Police Oversight Authority (IPOA) to investigate alleged human rights violations in the ongoing multi-agency security operation in Isiolo and Marsabit counties.
In a statement dated March 4, KNCHR Vice-Chairperson Raymond Nyeris claimed that the operation, dubbed Ondoa Jangili (Eliminate Bandits), launched on February 3, 2025, to flush out Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) elements, has been marred by excessive force, including the fatal shooting of a local.
KNCHR’s preliminary report states that police on patrol fired at a boda-boda rider and his passenger, Galgalo Abkul Boru, in Belgesha on February 23, 2025.
“Galgalo succumbed to his injuries, while the rider escaped with serious injuries to his head and hand,” the report reads.
The state-funded human rights watchdog also documented seven cases of abductions and enforced disappearances. Among them is Idris Edin, who was taken on February 22, 2025, and remains missing.
Nyeris alleged that armed officers conducted raids involving unlawful detentions, physical assault, and intimidation of civilians. The Commission also claimed that police in Garbatulla and Isiolo have refused to record statements from Edin’s family.
KNCHR condemned the alleged torture of the Malka Daka Location Chief, a local medic, and two others by officers on the night of February 7, 2025.
Additionally, it reported that security forces rounded up and assaulted ten locals on March 3, 2025—two in Malka Daka and eight in Iress Aboru.
The Commission further accused officers of using intimidation tactics, including arresting a five-year-old boy to force his father to surrender.
“These acts of aggression not only violate the sanctity of their home but also instill fear within the community,” KNCHR stated.
It also cited reports of property confiscation, including 150 goats and several motorbikes, calling it a violation of property rights.
KNCHR urged national and county governments, as well as humanitarian organizations, to assist displaced families with psychological support and legal aid. It also called for police to formally declare in court all items collected as exhibits when suspects are arraigned.
“The lack of cooperation from law enforcement agencies is indicative of a systemic failure to uphold individuals’ rights and protect them from arbitrary detention,” KNCHR stated.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja said the targeted areas include Sololo, Moyale, North Horr, and Merti sub-counties, which are allegedly used by OLA rebels for cross-border criminal activities.
He stated that the operation has so far led to the seizure of 10 firearms, ammunition, fake US dollars, and Ethiopian birr. Security officers have also destroyed 14 makeshift camps believed to be used by criminals.
