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The government has intensified security operations along the Kenya-Ethiopia border following a deadly attack that left at least 20 Kenyans dead and several others missing.
The violence, which erupted at Lopemukat common waters near River Omo on Saturday, February 22, involved a confrontation between Turkana and Dassanech fishermen. Heavily armed militia from the Ethiopian Dassanech community allegedly ambushed five boats, resulting in multiple fatalities.
Government Response
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen addressed the incident on Sunday, confirming that security forces had been deployed to restore calm and prevent further escalation.
“The government has reinforced security along the Kenya-Ethiopia border following last evening’s attack involving Kenyan citizens and Dassanech community members from Ethiopia. The Inspector General of Police is leading efforts to stabilize the situation, and calm has been restored,” Murkomen stated.
He further revealed that diplomatic engagements with Ethiopian authorities were underway to de-escalate tensions and foster peaceful coexistence between the two communities.
National Police Service Issues Warning
The National Police Service (NPS) also cautioned local communities against retaliatory attacks, urging restraint as investigations into the incident continue.
“We have received reports regarding an alleged attack between Turkana and Dassanech fishermen at Lopemukat common waters. A joint security team, working in collaboration with Ethiopian authorities, is on the ground verifying the situation and will take necessary legal action,” the NPS statement read.
The police emphasized the need for affected communities to remain calm and allow security forces to manage the situation.
Growing Concerns Over Border Security
Turkana North Member of Parliament, Ekwon Nabuin, described the situation as dire, calling for swift action to protect residents.
“The situation is extremely bad. Rescuers must act quickly to secure our people. This attack has occurred on Kenyan soil, and it is critical that security measures be reinforced,” he stated.
The motives behind the attack remain unclear, though preliminary reports suggest it may have been a retaliatory act following the reported killing of three Dassanech individuals earlier on the same day.
Authorities are working closely with Ethiopian officials to address the security threat and prevent further loss of life.
Way Forward
The Kenyan government has vowed to take all necessary steps to safeguard its citizens along the volatile border. Security personnel will remain on high alert as investigations continue, and diplomatic efforts aim to ensure lasting peace between the Turkana and Dassanech communities.
