Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kipchumba Murkomen, has assured that the government is investigating reports from the residents of Mandera County that Jubaland forces from Somalia have illegally crossed over to the country.
Speaking on September 2, in Busia County, Murkomen said the government is not aware of any foreign forces’ presence in Kenya.
He added that if people have crossed into the country due to fighting in the neighboring country, the government will verify their identity and treat them according to international laws.
“Border security is being handled through a multi-agency approach that includes the Department of Defence, security agencies, and other stakeholders working together. Whenever we face border challenges, particularly related to the al-Shabaab threat, or when Somalia experiences instability, many refugees seek safety in Kenya. Some are usually repatriated, while others undergo assessment,” Murkomen said.
Murkomen said the government’s priority is to ensure that no criminal elements enter the country.
However, he noted that those seeking refuge will be assisted in collaboration with the Somali government, which he said has a good relationship with Kenya.
Murkomen Warns Politicians
Further, the CS warned politicians against politicizing the issue, saying security issues are handled carefully in the best interests of the country.
He assured the people of Mandera that their safety and security are guaranteed and that security agencies are always on high alert to deal with any threats.
Murkomen said the government will ensure that everyone who is in Kenya illegally is brought to book.
He stated that the Kenyan government is not at war with anyone and will handle everything in accordance with international requirements.
“We will be handling such issues all the time. It is not just Somalia; when our neighboring countries face trouble, we will help them because some people will come to Kenya. We will always ensure they go back to their countries. We are not at war with anybody; we are just against terrorism.”
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Govt Is Not Aware
Besides, Murkomen explained that there is no Kenyan policy that allows foreigners, including Somalians, to cause war in Kenya.
He insisted that there are no Jubaland Forces in Kenya, and if there are, it is not by the invitation of the government.
He stated that the government will ensure such people are identified and taken back to Somalia.
“If there are Somalians in Kenya, it is not by the invitation of the Kenyan government. It might be because they are escaping from war in their home country. Security investigations will ensure that they are accounted for, and they are helped back to Somalia.”
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Mandera Governor Raises Alarm
Mandera Governor Mohamed Khalif has raised concern over armed groups occupying schools and marketplaces along the Somalia border, a situation that has already forced the closure of one primary school.
Khalif cautioned that residents may be compelled to take action if the units are not withdrawn, saying their presence is spreading fear among families and undermining Kenya’s sovereignty.
“Mandera cannot be turned into a battleground for Somalia. We have no interest in Somalia except for peace,” Khalif said.
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