Kenya Police destroy OLA hideouts days after warning

NAIROBI, Kenya - A few hours after Kenya's Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja warned the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) militia operating in the country, security forces in the frontlines destroyed several hideouts, firing a stern warning to the group.

Kanja had announced the commencement of "Operation Ondoa Jangili ' targeting the group’s hideouts in Marsabit and Isiolo counties, following intelligence reports about the infiltration of the group into Kenyan soil.

According to the National Police Service, the operation was initiated at Sololo and Merti Sub-Counties, with the police managing to recover several weapons that were in the custody of the militia.

"The team recovered several items including weapons and ammunition, walkie-talkies, camera stands, a solar panel, a generator, Marijuana, among other things believed to be used by the militia in carrying out their illegal activities," read the statement.

"The Militia group has taken advantage of close family and cultural ties between the Borana of Kenya and Oromo of Ethiopia to infiltrate and hide amongst the population and continue committing atrocities causing untold suffering."

In Ethiopia, the OLA has been at loggerheads with the government of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, leading to a national crackdown waged by the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF). Recently, the army announced withdrawal from internal conflicts.

"These recoveries mark the beginning of sustained efforts to eliminate criminals from the areas and affirming NPS’ unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property, fostering a secure environment for the local communities."

The operation comes a few hours before President William Ruto visits Isiolo and Marsabit counties for a development tour. Ruto is already in Mandera, another county battling with the presence of Somalia-based Al-Shabaab militants.

GAROWE ONLINE