Tana River Governor Dhadho Godhana has urged the National Government to release two community elders arrested following the recent inter-clan violence in northern Tana River, saying investigations should instead focus on identifying and prosecuting those responsible for inciting the conflict.
Speaking at his official residence in Hola, the governor condemned the worsening security situation in Tana North and Bangale sub-counties, where clashes between members of the Degodia and Wardei communities have left at least five people dead.
He also expressed concern over what he described as a growing wave of insecurity that is threatening peace and stability across the county.
Godhana said the government should conduct thorough investigations to establish the root cause of the violence and identify those behind the unrest rather than targeting community elders.
He specifically appealed for the release of Yakob Komoro and Osman Gutu, arguing that political leaders found to have fuelled divisions and incited the clashes should instead be held accountable.
The governor said insecurity in the affected areas has been escalating over time, with residents repeatedly raising concerns over armed criminal activities and persistent attacks that continue to undermine peace in Tana North.
According to him, the latest violence is part of a worrying pattern that has repeatedly claimed lives and disrupted communities.
Godhana also mourned Bangale Officer Commanding Station (OCS) Chief Inspector Sylvester Wambua, who was killed in a gun battle with suspected armed assailants while responding to the clashes.
He described the officer's death as a major loss to both the National Police Service and the people of Tana River.
The governor said attacks targeting police officers by armed criminals had become increasingly alarming, underscoring the need for a stronger and more coordinated security response.
He warned that unless decisive action is taken, the continued violence could further destabilise the county and place more lives at risk.
Godhana urged the National Government to move swiftly to restore law and order by deploying adequate security personnel and carrying out an independent investigation into the conflict.
He said residents have repeatedly complained about the deteriorating security situation in Tana North and called for lasting solutions that address both the immediate violence and its underlying causes.
The governor maintained that lasting peace can only be achieved if those responsible for orchestrating the clashes are identified and prosecuted, while innocent residents and community leaders are protected from being unfairly blamed.
He also appealed for calm among the affected communities as security agencies continue efforts to restore normalcy in the troubled region.
Comments
Sign in with Google to comment, reply, and like comments.
Continue with Google