The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has cendemned cases of human rights violations by the National Police Service dubbed ‘Operation Ondoa Jangili’ in Isiolo and Marsabit Counties.
In a statement on Tuesday, March 5, 2025, KNCHR said there have been instances of human rights violations against innocent Kenyans since the operation kicked off on February 3, 2025.
“The Commission appreciates that something is being done following the complaints about infiltration of people in the Marsabit and Isiolo Counties allegedly from neighbouring Counties. The infiltration is said to have led to insecurity in the region among other human rights violations concerns,” KNCHR stated.
“While we appreciate the importance of the operation, the KNCHR expresses its deep concern and condemnation regarding the alarming human rights violations reported since the onset of the Operation that according to the Police was intended to target criminals conducting illegal activities that pose a serious threat to Kenya’s national security.”
KNCHR cited the killing of a local by security personnel, abductions and enforced disappearances as well as violent treatment of numerous civilians, including the elderly and local leaders.
KNCHR has accused the police of fatally shooting Galgalo Abkul Boru on February 23, 2025, who had boarded a bodaboda. The bodaboda rider escaped with serious injuries on his head and hand.
KNCHR has also cited the abductions and enforced disappearances of seven men from three different locations. One of the abductees Idris Edin was taken on February 22, 2025, and is still missing. The human rights group reports that a group of armed police officers conducted a raid that involved unlawful detention, physical assault, and intimidation of innocent civilians. Police in Garbatulla and Isiolo have allegedly refused to record statements from Idris Edin’s family.
The group has also reported the torture against the chief of the Malka Daka location together with a local medic and two other locals by police officers conducting the operation. It is reported that the four were harassed and assaulted overnight on February 7, 2025.
“Ten locals rounded up and beaten by security forces on 3rd March 2025. Two of them in Malka Dakka and the other eight in Iress Aboru. Severally police officers have been reported to use intimidation tactics including arresting a 5-year-old boy to force the father to surrender to the police. These acts of aggression not only violate the sanctity of their home but also instil fear within the community. Confiscation of property from locals including one hundred and fifty (150) goats and several motorbikes has been reported. This is a violation to the right to property,” KNCHR says.
“Eyewitness accounts reveal a disturbing pattern of behavior that is inconsistent with the principles of human rights and the rule of law. The lack of cooperation from law enforcement agencies is indicative of a systemic failure to uphold the rights of individuals and to protect them from arbitrary detention.”
The commission says it will carry out independent investigations on any human rights violations and seek appropriate redress services including appearing in court on to seek accountability for missing and abducted persons.
The commission has also called upon the Independent Police Oversight Authority (IPOA) to conduct an independent and thorough investigation into the events during ‘Operation Ondoa Jangili’, including the killing of Galgalo Abkul Boru and abduction of Idris Edin and the mistreatment of locals.
KNCHR also wants the National Police Service to ensure that all officers involved in this operation are held accountable for their actions, and the National and County Governments as well as humanitarian organizations to provide immediate assistance and protection to the displaced families, those affected by the operations, including psychological support and legal aid.
“The National Police Service to uphold the principles of transparency and accountability in law enforcement operations to restore public trust. The Police to declare in court Items collected as exhibits when suspects are arraigned. About 150 goats and several motorbikes have been reportedly confiscated,” KNCHR stated.
“We urge the government to reaffirm its commitment to human rights, ensuring that all individuals are treated with dignity and respect, regardless of the circumstances. The right to security and safety should not come at the cost of fundamental human rights.”
Francis Muli
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