The government is investigating claims that armed Jubaland forces from Somalia have allegedly crossed into Mandera County, sparking anxiety among residents and political leaders. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, speaking in Busia at the start of his Jukwaa La Usalama tour of Western Kenya, dismissed the reports as unverified. He assured the public that security agencies were conducting thorough investigations to establish the facts.
“We can’t confirm now whether they’re forces from where or who they are. It’s only after proper security analysis that we will know if they are combatants or civilians,” Murkomen stated.
He further emphasized that those seeking refuge would be assisted in collaboration with the Somali government, which he described as a close partner to Kenya.
Murkomen warned against politicising the issue, stressing that any armed elements found on Kenyan soil would be dealt with according to international law.
The Interior CS’s remarks come amid growing concerns from leaders and former State officials, some of whom are urging President William Ruto to take immediate action.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has called for the deployment of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) to Mandera, arguing that Kenya’s sovereignty is under threat.
“It cannot be that forces from Somalia can come into Kenya and occupy our land and terrorize our people, yet the government is quiet,” Gachagua said.
Mandera Governor Adan Khalif also voiced alarm, claiming that the alleged presence of Jubaland troops was crippling daily activities and exposing residents to grave risks.
“Mandera cannot be turned into a battleground for Somalia. We have no business interfering in their internal affairs,” the governor noted.
DAP-K party leader Eugene Wamalwa joined in the criticism, questioning why Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya and the KDF had not publicly addressed the issue.
“It is a violation of our sovereignty and territorial integrity. The people of Mandera are living in fear; some cannot access their farms, send children to school, or even remain in their homes,” Wamalwa said.
Kenya shares a long, porous border with Somalia, making Mandera County a frequent flashpoint for insecurity linked to al-Shabaab insurgents, clan conflicts, and cross-border tensions.
While Murkomen maintains that the situation is under control, pressure is mounting on the government to reassure residents and take decisive steps should the presence of foreign troops be confirmed.
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