More police reservists to be deployed in clash area

What you need to know:

  • Addressing journalists at Kapese airstrip in Turkana South, during a tour to assess security in the region, Mr Kimaiyo said the reservists would be deployed in Kainuk, Loyapat, Nakuse, Lokwar, Kaputir, Nakwamoru, Katilu, Kakong, Kalimorock and Kwotoruk flashpoints.

Inspector General of Police David Kimaiyo has ordered deployment of additional police reservists to enforce law and order in the volatile Turkana and Pokot border region.

Though the region has enough police camps, they are understaffed.

Addressing journalists at Kapese airstrip in Turkana South, during a tour to assess security in the region, Mr Kimaiyo said the reservists would be deployed in Kainuk, Loyapat, Nakuse, Lokwar, Kaputir, Nakwamoru, Katilu, Kakong, Kalimorock and Kwotoruk flashpoints.

He assured residents living along the border and investors in the two counties of their security.

“The security personnel deployed along the border are to protect all residents, their property and border,” said Mr Kimaiyo.

The border has officers from the General Service, Anti Stock Theft and Rapid Deployment units and Administration police camps in strategic spots.

Mr Kimaiyo appealed to leaders in both counties to be at the forefront in managing the conflict, saying this should be undertaken urgently.

Citing the huge investments like that done by Tullow Oil Company, the police boss said the area had a huge development potential which issues of insecurity should not be allowed to frustrate.
“We want to start seeing both communities living harmoniously and coexisting as business activities are encouraged.” he said.

Turkana South MP James Lomenen said with the increased number of police reservists, provision of armoured vehicles and helicopter, security would be guaranteed in the region.

Dialogue call

Deputy Governor Peter Lokoel said the county government would always advocate dialogue for the sake of the region’s development.

Turkana South Deputy County Commissioner Elijah Kodoh too called for dialogue between communities in the neighbouring counties in a bid to address conflict that perennially pits them against each other.

His comments came in the wake of reports that hundreds of Pokot herdsmen had crossed into Kaakong division of Turkana County with their animals in search of pasture, heightening tension between the two pastoral communities.

“We are asking the herdsmen to retreat to their grazing field to avert possible clash with their Turkana counterparts,” said Mr Kodo.

Colonial times
Six people have recently been killed and hundreds of animals stolen in fresh armed conflict between the Pokot and Turkana.

Mr Kodoh said the attacks occurred along River Turkwel, a region claimed by both communities since colonial times.

“The conflict is attracting new players including politicians, civil rights activists and potential investors with diverse interests,” said Joseph Akoule, the chairman of Sikom peace Development network.