Tana River Governor Dhado, MP Hiribae arrested over clan clashes

Tana River county governor Dhado Godhana speaking during the signing of a collaboration framework with the Rural Electrification and Renewable energy Corporation in Nairobi on March 26th 2024. [Collins Oduor, Standard]

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has arrested Tana River Governor Dhado Godana and Galole MP Said Hiribae in connection with ongoing inter-clan clashes in the county.

The two are being questioned at the DCI headquarters on Kiambu Road.

"We have arrested both the MP and the Governor, and they are being brought to the headquarters for questioning after failing to honor earlier summons," DCI boss Amin said.

Hiribae was arrested in Hola, according to his team.

The arrests follow a directive by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, who yesterday declared 12 areas in Tana River as disturbed and dangerous.

The directive, which took effect on Friday, October 11, will remain in force for 30 days.

The affected areas include Madogo, Saka, Sala, and Bula, among others.

Residents have also been ordered to surrender any firearms in their possession for "safe custody."

The unrest in the county has resulted in at least 15 deaths so far.