Murkomen says government investigating claims of presence of Jubbaland forces in Mandera 

Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said the government is investigating reports from the residents of Mandera County that Jubbaland forces from Somalia have illegally crossed over to the country.

The Cabinet Secretary, while fielding questions from journalists in Busia at the beginning of his Jukwaa la Usalama tour of Western Kenya, said there are no such forces in the country that the government is aware of.

He added that if there are people who have crossed over to the country as a result of fighting in the neighboring country, the government will establish their identity and treat them as per international laws.

Murkomen said the government’s priority is to ensure that no criminal elements enter the country, but those seeking refuge will be assisted in collaboration with the Somali government, which he said has a good relationship with Kenya.

He 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 is guaranteed and that security agencies are always on high alert to deal with any threats.

On the retrieval of bodies at the Kwa Binzaro area in Kilifi County, which are linked to suspected cult activities, the CS said the IG of Police, Douglas Kanja, has visited the area to ascertain facts and will update the country later today.

He urged Wananchi to report missing relatives to the authorities to forestall losing people to extremist religions.