10 Guns Recovered in Ongoing ‘Ondoa Jangili’ Operation in Isiolo and Marsabit

 

 

Isiolo/Marsabit, Kenya – Security forces have recovered at least ten firearms in the ongoing Operation Ondoa Jangili, aimed at dismantling criminal networks in Isiolo and Marsabit counties.

 

The operation, launched on February 3, 2025, targets remnants of the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA), accused of fueling insecurity along the Kenya-Ethiopia border.

 

Major Security Gains

 

According to Police Spokesman Michael Muchiri, security officers have destroyed 14 makeshift camps believed to have been used by criminals. The crackdown has also led to the recovery of:

 

10 assorted firearms and ammunition

 

Various firearm holsters

 

Fake currency in US Dollars and Ethiopian Birr

 

A water bowser lorry

 

Nine motorcycles and two motor vehicles

 

Sackfuls of cannabis weighing approximately 200kg

 

Food supplies, solar panels, and generators

 

A full set of military gear and caps

 

Oromia literature and propaganda materials

 

 

Several suspects have been arrested, with multiple cases pending before the courts.

 

Impact on Regional Security

 

Authorities say the operation has disrupted illegal activities, including:

 

Proliferation of small arms

 

Illegal mining

 

Human trafficking

 

Cross-border incursions

 

Kidnappings for ransom

 

 

“This has brought an end to the untold suffering experienced by people living along the Kenya-Ethiopia border,” Muchiri stated.

 

Criminal Networks Exploiting Ethnic Ties

 

Security officials report that OLA operatives have taken advantage of close family and cultural ties between the Borana of Kenya and the Oromo of Ethiopia to infiltrate local communities and hide among civilians while carrying out criminal activities.

 

Police IG Douglas Kanja emphasized that the operation will intensify efforts to neutralize threats posed by armed groups involved in illegal arms trade, drug trafficking, and ethnic conflicts in Sololo, Moyale, North Horr, and Merti sub-counties.

 

Diplomatic Talks Preceded Crackdown

 

The operation follows diplomatic discussions between Kenya and Ethiopia after both nations accused OLA of orchestrating attacks in the region.

 

In January 2025, President William Ruto met with Ethiopia’s National Intelligence Security Service Director General, Redwan Hussien, alongside Kenya’s National Intelligence Service Director General, Noordin Haji. The meeting, held at State House, Nairobi, reportedly set the stage for the security crackdown.

 

The OLA, an armed opposition group in Ethiopia’s Oromia Region, consists of former members of the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) who refused to disarm following a peace deal.

 

Police Assure Residents of Security

 

Kenyan security agencies have urged residents in affected areas to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement officers by sharing crucial intelligence.

 

“The government is committed to ensuring the safety of all citizens and will not tolerate activities that threaten national security,” Kanja assured.

 

The multi-agency operation remains active as security forces continue efforts to eliminate criminal elements in the region.