Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has declared 13 areas near the Dabel Artisinal Mining Sites in Marsabit County as disturbed areas following the recent surge in gang violence.
In a Gazette Notice dated Thursday, March 14, Kindiki ordered people in the affected areas to vacate effective immediately.
The 13 areas that the CS included were; Hillo Gorgora, Hillo Orofa, Hillo Walkite, Hillo Tanzania, Hillo Irress Abamartille, Hillo Gootu, Hillo Tessum Qalicha and Hillo Karray.
Other areas listed are; Hillo Hudda, Hillo Qoranjido, Hillo Irress Shindia, Hillo Rabaalee and Hillo Godde Haruressa.
Kindiki indicated that access to the aforementioned areas would only be granted to individuals by relevant authorities.
"Further, pursuant to section 8 (1) of the Public Order Act, no person may be found present in the specified areas at any time from the date hereof without written authority from the County Police Commander of Marsabit County.
"This notice takes effect from 0630 Hrs on the 14th March 2024, for a period of thirty (30) days and may be withdrawn, varied, continued or otherwise altered as appropriate and as the Cabinet Secretary may direct," read the notice in part.
The CS also revealed that seven people had been killed in gang-related violence in the area this week.
Kindiki added that the government was wary of possible narcotic drug dealings with a suspicion that foreigners could be involved in the illegal trade.
"The area has been rife with armed criminals facilitating trade in narcotic drugs, while 7 people including two(2) aliens were killed this week in gang rivalries among the illegal artisanal miners on site.
"Cases of rape, defilement and gender-based violence have been booked," the CS added.
Further, a special team from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has been deployed to the area to investigate the incidents and apprehend perpetrators.
