Border trade from Somalia cut as red alert raised

Cross-border trade from Somalia has been blocked as Kenyan military tightens its grip on the northern frontier. Security forces in North Eastern Province have been put on high alert to counter possible attacks from Somali militia.

The move has ruined trade at Somalia’s Gedo region whose proceeds help to fuel Al-Shabaab rebellion. All police stations and police posts near the Somali border have been reinforced.

Renewed threat

Police checks on roads have also been increased amid renewed Al-Shabaab’s threats to annex North Eastern Province if Kenya dares sending troops to Somalia.

Police sources said they were put on alert following worsening Somalia crisis over the past few weeks.

“We are carrying out strict security measures as we are on the alert following what is going on in Somalia,” Wajir police boss Julius Kitili said on Thursday.

Meanwhile, many Somali refugees are said to fleeing into Kenya. According to the UNHCR, an estimated 200 refugees fleeing the raging conflict in Mogadishu have been crossing into Kenya daily.