More officers deployed as calm returns to Lagdera

GSU officers in action during the Dusit D2 Hotel attack [Photo/Standard]

The Government has deployed more security officers along the border between Garissa and Isiolo counties where clashes erupted earlier this week.

Lagdera Deputy County Commissioner Philip Koima yesterday said the measures were necessary after members of two communities clashed, leading to the deaths of three herders.

Irate residents then went on the rampage, torching houses and a market owned by members of the rival community.

“We have enhanced reinforcements and deployed more security officers. Police are also conducting patrols in specific locations that we think are hotspot areas,” said Mr Koima.

The Standard also learnt that six national police reservists had been disarmed and their firearms taken for ballistic tests.

North-Eastern Regional Commissioner Mohamed Birik warned that political leaders from the two counties found to be inciting their communities to violence would be arrested.

“We understand pastoralists are in the middle of a dry spell and everyone is searching for water and pasture but they should remain peaceful and share the available resources,” Mr Birik said.

Northern Forum for Democracy coordinator Khalif Abdi, who said members of the two communities had been at peace for a long time, accused leaders of fanning hatred by posting inflammatory remarks on social media. [Abdimalik Hajir]