Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has directed intensified security operations and investigations following the deadly attack near Arabia in Mandera County that left six dead and three others seriously injured, on Saturday, May 9.
Intelligence collection and surveillance operations have also been enhanced across vulnerable areas. These measures aim to detect and disrupt any planned retaliatory attacks or mobilization of armed groups, IG Kanja said.
“In the meantime, all relevant government agencies have heightened security operations and sustained intelligence-led interventions, combining both enforcement and dialogue-based approaches to restore calm and maintain stability within Mandera County,” he said.
Appearing before the parliamentary committee during the consideration of the 2026/2027 budget estimates, Kanja said the following. He said that the County Security Committee in Mandera alongside all relevant security agencies, had been directed to immediately review the incident. They had also been directed to assess the prevailing security situation and implement measures to prevent further escalation.
This comes after Mandera East MP Abdirahman Hussein Weytan, criticised security agencies. He noted that they failed to protect residents despite a heavy security presence in the area.
The attack occurred along the Mandera-Arabia Road near Omar Jillo Centre. It has disrupted development and normal activities in the region. It has also heightened tensions in the region over insecurity and possible retaliatory violence concerns.
Kanja told lawmakers that preliminary assessments indicated the incident was criminal in nature. He warned that the situation risked evolving into a broader inter-community conflict if not handled carefully.
“It was noted that the incident was criminally related and that the situation was rapidly evolving into a broader inter-crime conflict,” Kanja said.
“Additionally, it was observed that the incident was increasingly being politicized, with some political actors allegedly exploiting the situation for political gain, a factor likely to further inflame tensions and undermine ongoing peace efforts.”
The Inspector General revealed that security agencies had already launched comprehensive investigations. The investigations were aimed at establishing the motive behind the attack.
They were also intended to identify the perpetrators. Furthermore, they also aimed to determine whether there was any external coordination or influence linked to the killings.
He added that patrols had been intensified in identified hotspots across Mandera County. This initiative is meant to reassure affected communities, enhance security presence and deter retaliatory attacks.
Kanja also disclosed that authorities had initiated consultations with political leaders, clan elders, religious leaders and community representatives. This is aimed at helping to de-escalate tensions, promote dialogue and peaceful coexistence.
“Engagement with leaders from all affected sides is ongoing with the aim of promoting dialogue and preventing further escalation,” he said.
The police boss added that security agencies had strengthened coordination. They also strengthened information-sharing mechanisms among various units and local community structures.
This was done to counter misinformation and support peace initiatives on the ground.
