Police seize guns, disrupt criminal networks as Operation Ondoa Jangili gains momentum
Police spokesman Michael Muchiri confirmed on Saturday that the operation had led to the destruction of 14 makeshift camps, believed to be used by the criminals.
At least 10 firearms have been seized along with a variety of other illegal items in the ongoing Ondoa Jangili operation targeting criminal groups in Isiolo and Marsabit counties.
The operation, which began on February 3, 2025, aims to dismantle a criminal network connected to the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) that has been causing widespread suffering in the region.
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Police spokesman Michael Muchiri confirmed on Saturday that the operation had led to the destruction of 14 makeshift camps, believed to be used by the criminals.
In addition to the firearms, the authorities recovered a variety of items including ammunition, fake US dollars and Ethiopian birr, a water bowser lorry, nine motorcycles, two motor vehicles, 200 kilos of cannabis, military gear, solar panels and food supplies.
Muchiri stated that the operation had successfully curtailed several criminal activities, including the proliferation of small arms, illegal mining, human trafficking, and cross-border incursions.
"This has brought an end to the untold suffering experienced by people living along the Kenya-Ethiopia border," he said.
The OLA, an armed opposition group active in Ethiopia's Oromia region, is made up of former members of the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) who rejected a peace deal and former youth protesters disillusioned with nonviolent resistance.
According to police, the group has exploited cultural and familial ties between the Borana of Kenya and the Oromo of Ethiopia to infiltrate local communities and carry out their illegal activities.
The operation follows a high-level meeting in January 2025 between President William Ruto and Redwan Hussien, Director General of Ethiopia's National Intelligence and Security Service, which discussed cross-border security issues.
This led to the launch of the ongoing operation, to address crimes that threaten Kenya's national security.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja emphasised that the operation will continue, focusing on criminal activities such as arms trafficking, illegal mining, human trafficking, and kidnappings for ransom, particularly in areas like Sololo, Moyale, North Horr, and Merti Sub-counties.
He urged local communities to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement officers for the success of the multi-agency effort.
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