Interior CS Murkomen: 'Operation Ondoa Jangili' Delivering Results in Curbing Crime

By Irine Chebet

The Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, Kipchumba Murkomen, has affirmed that the ongoing security crackdown, dubbed Operation Ondoa Jangili, is yielding positive outcomes. Over the past year, authorities have recovered at least 58 illegal firearms from criminal elements.

Speaking in Isiolo earlier today while inspecting recovered firearms and confiscated drugs, Murkomen emphasized that the operation—targeting criminal groups in Marsabit and Isiolo counties—will continue until all criminal networks are dismantled. He assured residents that the government is determined to restore lasting peace and security in the region.

The CS highlighted porous borders as a major challenge, noting that illegal arms and narcotics from neighboring countries often enter Kenya through Isiolo, which serves as a key transit point to other parts of the country.

Murkomen also urged government administrators to uphold integrity, especially amid political interference in security operations, such as the recruitment of chiefs and assistant chiefs. He criticized some politicians for pushing the appointment of loyalists, which undermines the credibility and effectiveness of local leadership.

He went on to accuse certain political leaders of shielding criminals from their regions or ethnic communities, saying this has allowed cross-border criminal networks to thrive. According to Murkomen, these groups collaborate to plan and execute raids, often sharing intelligence and dividing the spoils of crime.

He singled out Meru County as a hotspot for criminal collaboration, claiming that residents have been aiding criminal elements from Samburu and Isiolo in executing well-coordinated attacks. The assailants, he said, often have inside knowledge on where and when to strike, as well as which escape routes to use.

Murkomen concluded by calling for collective responsibility among citizens, local administrators, and security agencies. He stressed the importance of community involvement in identifying and reporting criminals to ensure thorough and sustained efforts in eliminating insecurity.