By Malyun Ali
Gaarisa (RBC) The Kenyan security forces have arrested at least 500 people mostly Somali ethnic in second day on-going security operation in Gaarisa town, the capital of North Eastern Province of Kenya, RBC Radio reports.
The operation which started early on Tuesday followed last week’s gun attack that killed at least 11 people at Holiday In Hotel. The attack was blamed on Al Shabab militants in Somalia but the group did not take the responsibility until now.
The on-going security operation closed down the business including hotels and shops as the schools were slammed, according to locals who spoke with RBC Radio on Wednesday.
“The police crackdown is still going, we are told not to leave from home.” said one resident in Gaarisa on Wednesday morning. “They catch and arrest every Somali person, female of male.” the resident added.
Teachers and students were even among those apprehended by the police. But local journalist said that most of the apprehended people were released after police interrogation.
The governor of Kenya’s North Eastern Province Moalim Mohamed said the operation aimed to end recurring insecurity activities in Gaarisa which he blamed for Al Shabab members hiding in the town.
“We want get rid of them and Gaarisa will not like Mogadishu and Kismayo.” the governor commented.
Meanwhile Kenyan media reported six men described as “high value” suspects were arrested in Garissa in the police operation.
RBC Radio
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