Three men on way to join Shabaab intercepted

Three young men who left Isiolo County two weeks ago on their way to Somalia have been intercepted.

The three, who were part of an initial group of six, were arrested at Dagahaley refugee camp.

Isiolo County Commissioner George Natembeya on Monday said the other youths from Tullo-roba were still missing and are suspected to be on their way to join the Somalia-based Islamist group.

The suspects are said to have travelled from Isiolo to Garissa on motorbikes. They carried reserve fuel in containers and spare wheels.

He said detectives were following leads after their parents reported their disappearance. The six were friends aged below 35 years. The suspects are to be returned to Isiolo by police for interrogation.

 “Police were informed about the presence of the three at the camp as they seemed suspicious. They were on their way to Somalia,” said Mr Natembeya.

Police have questioned several people believed to be recruiting young people in Isiolo to join Al-Shabaab.

CHANGED TACTICS

It is also suspected that the recruiters and those radicalised have changed tactics by using motorcycles on their way to Mandera before crossing to Somalia to avoid suspicion.

Mr Natembeya further decried lack of political will in the fight against radicalisation.

He also faulted residents for failing to give information on time, saying some were uncooperative during investigations.

“They (family members) should report to police immediately if they notice that their sons or relatives are missing for quick response. We get to hear of the disappearances days later by which time some have already crossed the border to Somalia,” the commissioner said.

Isiolo has become a major recruiting ground for Al-Shabaab and has been in the limelight after more than 30 youths disappeared from their homes to join the terror group.

The county security team, has, in conjunction with religious leaders, intensified a crackdown on Al-Shabaab recruiters.