The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has raised concerns over alleged human rights violations being carried out by law enforcement officers in the ongoing 'Ondoa Jangili' operation in Nothern Kenya.
In a press statement dated March 4, KNCHR relayed that since the operation kicked off a month ago on February 3, at least six infractions by the authorities had been reported by the residents of Isiolo and Marsabit counties.
"While we appreciate the importance of the operation, the KNCHR expresses its deep concern and condemnation regarding the alarming human rights violations reported since the onset of the operation that according to the Police was intended to target criminals conducting illegal activities that pose a serious threat to Kenya's national security," part of the statement read.
"We are particularly troubled by the killing of a local by security personnel, abductions and enforced disappearances as well as violent treatment of numerous civilians, including the elderly and local leaders."
Digging deeper into these violations, KNCHR noted that the security operation had led to the fatal shooting of one Abkul Boru on February 23 when police sprayed bullets at a bodaboda rider and his pillion passenger, who succumbed.
The commission also announced that seven people had been abducted by authorities since the operation kicked off, including one who was taken on February 22 and his whereabouts are still unknown.
On the night of February 7, the chief of the Malka Daka location, a local medic, and two other locals were reportedly tortured by police officers conducting the operation according to KNCHR. 10 more locals were also beaten up by security forces on March 3.
Known to use intimidation tactics, KNCHR accused the police officers of going to the extent of arresting a 5-year-old boy to compel the father to surrender to the authorities.
The commission also reported the confiscation of property from locals including one hundred and fifty (150) goats and several motorbikes.
In light of these damning allegations, they further made five demands to different government agencies including the Independent Police Oversight Authority (IPOA) to whom they called for an investigation into the events during 'Operation Ondoa Jangili', including the killing of Galgalo Abkul Boru, abductions and the mistreatment of locals.
From the National Police Service, they called for the accountability of all officers involved in this operation in accordance with the law.
They also urged the NPS to uphold the principles of transparency and accountability in law enforcement operations to restore public trust and for them to declare in court items collected as exhibits when suspects are arraigned.
Their final request was to the county and national governments and humanitarian organisations to intervene and provide immediate assistance and protection to the displaced families, and those affected by the operations, including psychological support and legal aid.
"We urge the government to reaffirm its commitment to human rights, ensuring that all individuals are treated with dignity and respect, regardless of the circumstances. The right to security and safety should not come at the cost of fundamental human rights," the statement concluded.
