Tana River Governor Dhadho Godhana has called on the National Government to release two community elders arrested following the recent inter-clan clashes in northern Tana River, insisting that investigations should instead focus on identifying and prosecuting those responsible for inciting the violence.
Speaking at his official residence in Hola on Tuesday, Governor Godhana condemned the deteriorating security situation in Tana North and Bangale sub-counties, where clashes between members of the Degodia and Wardei communities have left at least five people dead.
“The government should conduct thorough investigations to establish the root cause of the violence and identify those who orchestrated and incited the unrest, rather than targeting innocent community elders,” said Governor Godhana.
The governor specifically appealed for the release of community elders Yakob Komoro and Osman Gutu, arguing that accountability should be directed at political leaders and individuals found to have fueled divisions and violence in the region.
Godhana expressed concern over what he described as a growing wave of insecurity that continues to threaten peace and stability across Tana River County. He noted that residents of Tana North have repeatedly raised concerns over armed criminal activities and persistent attacks that have undermined security in the area.
“The latest violence is part of a disturbing pattern of insecurity that has repeatedly claimed lives, displaced families, and disrupted communities,” he said.
The governor also mourned the death of Bangale Officer Commanding Station (OCS), Chief Inspector Sylvester Wambua, who was killed during a gun battle with suspected armed attackers while responding to the clashes.
“Chief Inspector Wambua’s death is a significant loss not only to the National Police Service but also to the people of Tana River County. His sacrifice in the line of duty should never be forgotten,” Godhana stated.
He further warned that attacks targeting police officers by armed criminals have become increasingly alarming, highlighting the urgent need for a stronger and more coordinated security response.
Governor Godhana urged the National Government to move swiftly to restore law and order by deploying adequate security personnel and conducting an independent investigation into the conflict.
“Our people have repeatedly complained about the deteriorating security situation in Tana North. We need lasting solutions that address both the immediate violence and its underlying causes,” he said.
He maintained that sustainable peace can only be achieved if those responsible for orchestrating the clashes are identified and prosecuted, while innocent residents and community leaders are protected from unfair blame.
The governor also appealed for calm among the affected communities as security agencies continue efforts to restore normalcy in the troubled region.
