The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has been monitoring the ongoing security operation by the National Police Service dubbed ‘Operation Ondoa Jangili’ since it started on 3 rd February, 2025 in Isiolo and Marsabit Counties.
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.
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. We are particularly troubled by 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. The reported violations include:
a) The fatal shooting of Galgalo Abkul Boru on 23rd February, 2025. Reports indicate that police on patrol sprayed bullets on a boda-boda rider and his passenger Galgalo Abkul Boru at Belgesha area. Galgalo succumbed to his injuries with the rider escaping with serious injuries on his head and hand.
b) The abductions and enforced disappearances of seven (7) men from three (3) different locations. One of the abductees Idris Edin who was taken on the 22nd of February, 2025 is still missing. It is reported 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.
c) Torture against the Chief of 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 7th February, 2025.
d) Ten locals rounded up and beaten by security forces on 3rd March 2025. Two (2) of them in Malka Dakka and the other eight (8) in Iress Aboru.
e) 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.
f) 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.
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.
Pursuant to its mandate, the Commission has been and will continue monitoring the operation and carrying out independent investigations on any human rights violations. The KNCHR will also seek appropriate redress services including appearing in court on Habeas Corpus to seek accountability for missing and abducted persons.
The Commission calls upon:
1. 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 in violation of the Prevention of Torture Act.
2. The National Police Service to ensure that all officers involved in this operation are held accountable for their actions, in accordance with the law.
3. The National and County Government 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.
4. The National Police Service to uphold the principles of transparency and accountability in law enforcement operations to restore public trust.
5. The Police to declare in court Items collected as exhibits when suspects are arraigned. About 150 goats and several motorbikes have been reportedly confiscated.
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.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) is an Independent National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) established under Article 59 of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010 and the KNCHR Act, 2011. The Commission’s mandate is the promotion and protection of human rights in Kenya.
Haki Kwa Wote Kila Wakati!
Dr. Raymond Nyeris, Ph.D,
Vice Chairperson,
Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR).