Community Outcry Over Disappearances and Extra-Judicial Killing in Ijara Constituency
Ijara – Residents of Ijara Constituency in Garissa County are grappling with shock following the disappearance of two people and the tragic killing of another. The incidents have renewed concerns of extra-judicial killings, sparking calls for action and justice.
According to locals, 18-year-old Abdi Mohamed Abdi, a cattle herder from Boni, has been missing for four days while Abdi Ahmed Abdi, 20, was abducted from his Bula Gora home in Ijara.
“His family in distress and are seeking for help to bring back their son,” a local resident told this writer.
Meanwhile, 40-year-old Abdi Jabril Dagan Abass was killed by suspected security officers after shots were fired at a herd of cattle while grazing in the Hindi area.
The resurgence of extra-judicial killings in the area, once believed to have been resolved, has deeply troubled the community.
Ijara Member of Parliament (MP) Abdi Ali Abdi expressed his unequivocal condemnation of extra-judicial killings, stating, “Extra-judicial killing is illegal, and it offends every principle of the right to life. It must come to an end in Ijara Constituency and Kenya at large.” He further emphasized his constituents’ commitment to upholding the country’s rule of law.
Mr. Abdi Ali has plead with the security forces to swiftly confirm the whereabouts of the missing individual. He stressed the immense pain and shock experienced by their families, who anxiously await any news about their loved ones.
He also assured the affected families and friends of his unwavering commitment to seeking justice for the victims, saying, “I urge them to remain calm during these trying times as I pursue every avenue to seek justice.”
Last week, Interior Cabinet Secretary said Government of Kenya will not condone extrajudicial killings. “They are not only illegal but a violation of the Constitution, humanity and international laws.”
He said the days of enforced disappearances, just because someone is a suspect, are long gone.
President William Ruto has vowed to remain committed that careless killing and disappearing of young people by police officers who are supposed to foster their safety must stop.
“The President has ordered us to ensure this trend stops. However, I must say at this point, the police-public relationship is good, meaning the trend has abated,” said Prof. Kindiki.