Oromo Liberation Army denies presence in Kenya as security operation intensifies
In a statement posted on their X platform, OLA denied having any presence on Kenyan territory, stating that they uphold and fully respect Kenya’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) has denied involvement in criminal activities in Marsabit and Isiolo counties after the National Police Service launched Operation Ondoa Jangili on Monday to flush out suspected OLA hideouts.
On Tuesday, a multi-agency team also raided OLA hideouts in the Merti and Sololo sub-counties.
More To Read
- Win for Isiolo residents as court orders closure of conservancies on community land
- Hundreds hold demos in Isiolo to defend community conservancies
- Elders and activists in Isiolo demand swift action as three-day fire ravages grazing fields
- Farmers in Isiolo, Garissa, seven other counties to receive Sh6.3 billion USAID grant
In a statement posted on their X platform, OLA denied having any presence on Kenyan territory, stating that they uphold and fully respect Kenya’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
"Over 95 per cent of our southern command forces operate deep within southern Oromia, while fewer than 5 per cent are stationed near the Kenya border. Our operations in these areas are considerate of Kenya's sovereignty," OLA said.
The Ethiopian armed resistance group reiterated its commitment to the safety and security of the Borana and other brotherly Kenyan communities, stating that they oppose all forms of criminal activity that disrupt peaceful coexistence.
They also expressed willingness to cooperate with Kenyan authorities in efforts to eliminate criminal elements along the border.
OLA acknowledged the existence of transnational criminal networks involved in drug, human, and precious metal trafficking on both sides of the border. They alleged that these illicit operations are established and sustained by high-ranking members of the Ethiopian government, military, and intelligence services, who exploit legal banking channels to facilitate their activities.
They further stated that they would take action against any of their members found aiding, abetting, or participating in such syndicates.
DCI boss Mohamed Amin and Deputy Inspector General of Police, Gilbert Masengeli. The NPS has launched Operation Ondoa Jangili to flush out OLA criminal elements. (X/National Police Service)
The group cautioned Kenyan authorities against being influenced by the Ethiopian government, urging Kenya to remain neutral for the sake of fostering peace and stability.
"We urge Kenya to continue its tradition of balanced and constructive engagement with all parties, fostering peace and stability in the region," the statement read.
Their denial coincides with a raid conducted by the newly launched Operation Ondoa Jangili on Tuesday at suspected OLA hideouts in Sololo and Merti sub-counties.
The police reported recovering several items, including weapons and ammunition, walkie-talkies, camera stands, a solar panel, a generator, and marijuana, among other things believed to be used by the militia for illegal activities.
"The militia group has taken advantage of close family and cultural ties between the Borana of Kenya and the Oromo of Ethiopia to infiltrate and hide among the population, continuing to commit atrocities that cause untold suffering," said the NPS.
The police stated that these recoveries mark the beginning of sustained efforts to eliminate criminals from the affected areas.
The NPS further affirmed its unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property while fostering a secure environment for local communities.
Top Stories Today
