Kenya Police Target Ethiopia's OLA Rebel Group

NAIROBI, Kenya - Police in Kenya have launched a security operation targeting the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) in Marsabit and Isiolo counties, following a series of insecurity incidents across the common border with Ethiopia, triggered by the group.

This operation aims to dismantle the group's criminal activities, which pose a significant threat to Kenya's national security, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja said. The group takes advantage of cultural ties between the Oromo and Borana of Kenya.

OLA, the police boss said, is notorious for facilitating terrorism through collaboration with Al-Shabaab, trafficking illegal arms and narcotics, engaging in human smuggling, and dealing in contraband goods.

Additionally, the group has been involved in cross-border incursions, illegal mining, instigating tribal conflicts, and kidnapping for ransom, the security boss added in a statement that comes ahead of President William Ruto's trip to northern Kenya.

"The NPS urges residents to remain calm, cooperate with security officers, and continue with their daily activities as law enforcement works to restore peace and safeguard the lives and property of all Kenyans," Kanja said.

In recent months, there has been relative stability in the country due to increased surveillance by security teams, with the al-Shabaab group minimizing activities within the northeastern region. The OLA is said to be causing a significant threat in northern regions.

This achievement is the result of a comprehensive and strategic counterterrorism approach spearheaded by the government. Key initiatives include the deployment of the elite Special Operations Group (SOG) under the National Intelligence Service (NIS), enhanced intelligence coordination, and reinforced border security.

Once challenged regions such as Mandera, Garissa, and Lamu now enjoy a renewed sense of peace and stability, a testament to the government’s commitment to securing the nation. Kenya’s leadership in counterterrorism and resilience has positioned it as a regional benchmark for security excellence.

GAROWE ONLINE