Tana River County Governor Dhadho Godana and Galole MP Said Hiribae were arrested on Friday night in connection with the ongoing inter-clan clashes that have claimed at least 14 lives. The two leaders were apprehended after failing to respond to police summons aimed at helping to address the violence in the region. They were subsequently transported to Nairobi for questioning at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) headquarters.
The escalating violence, which has affected various locations in Tana River County, prompted the government to declare the area as “security-disturbed and dangerous.” Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki announced the decision following consultations with the National Security Council. The declaration affects 12 locations in Bangale and Tana North sub-counties and will remain in effect for 30 days, with the possibility of extension.
DCI Director Mohamed Amin confirmed the arrests, stating, “This is a serious issue. While other local leaders responded to the summons to assist with investigations, Governor Godana and MP Hiribae failed to do so.”
The arrests follow the questioning of three other Tana River County legislators, including Garsen MP Ali Wario, Bura MP Yakub Adow, and local ward representative Mohammed Jibril. Former Woman Representative Rehema Hassan was also questioned regarding the clashes, which have now entered their second week.
As part of the government’s efforts to restore peace, Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja has issued a 30-day ban on the possession of firearms in the affected areas. Residents have been directed to surrender their weapons to police stations for safekeeping, with assurances that they will be returned after the ban is lifted.
The situation remains tense as authorities work to contain the violence and restore order in the region.
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