Crackdown on warring clans nets 47 rifles

Security agents have recovered 47 rifles and more than 900 rounds of ammunition in a major operation in Mandera area.

The operation was launched after 21 people were killed when months of tension between the Garre and Murulle clans exploded into fierce fighting in the middle of the month.

Military helicopters sealed off the borders with Somalia and Ethiopia during the operation, in which a rocket propelled grenade launcher and a hand grenade were also recovered.

Three radios

The officers also seized a satellite telephone and three radios. The operation began six days ago after bandits raided the area, killing eight people and stealing more than 3,000 goats, 500 cattle and 25 camels.

Police, however, have been accused of brutality and reports on Wednesday said that up to 200 people had been treated in hospital for injuries sustained during the operation.

According to Sheikh Ahmed Takoy, a member of the arbitration committee between the Garre and Murulle clans, Mandera will have no peace until recommendations of a 2005 peace pact are implemented.

In 2005, the two clans battled for four months and, after a series of local peace initiatives, signed the Mandera Peace Accord on April 22, 2005.