Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has called on the Northeastern community and religious leaders to join forces with security agencies to help curb terrorism.
While speaking during his tour to Wajir and Mandera Counties on Tuesday, July 4, CS Kindiki urged members of the community to volunteer information on criminal elements residing around them for appropriate action.
He further highlighted the importance of a united front in curbing terrorism which he says threatens the country’s stability.
“Residents are key partners in the war against Al-Shabaab and other violent extremists. By volunteering information, you’ll be helping our security officers to deal with criminals who continue to threaten our national security and destabilize communities in Northeastern Kenya,” he said.
Kindiki’s call comes following the increasing number of attacks by Al-Shabaab in the country’s North and Coastal regions with Garissa, Mandera, Wajir and Lamu counties bearing the brunt of the attacks due to their proximity to Somalia border.
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As a result, more than 30 people in the last one month have been killed and dozens injured in the Al-Shabaab attacks with majority of victims being security officers.
However, the Interior CS noted that many attacks have been thwarted through intelligence led security operations.
He further reported that the government will in the new financial year spend up to Sh20 billion to procure modern equipment for security officers as part of efforts to widely deal with the wave of terror, banditry, and other cross-border crimes.
“With the modernization of security equipment, political goodwill from the President, the commitment of our security officers, and partnership with religious and community leaders and residents, the threat of terrorism will be permanently defeated,” Kindiki said.
The CS echoed the government’s commitment to counter violent extremism and ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens.
