Kenya Launches Security Operation Against Ethiopian Militia.
A new security operation targeting the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) began on February 3 in northern Kenya. The operation, named "Ondoa Jangili," led to raids on militia hideouts in Sololo and Merti Sub-Counties.
Security teams seized weapons, ammunition, communication equipment, and marijuana from the sites. Police spokesman Michael Muchiri said these raids mark the start of efforts to remove criminals from the region.
The OLA has used family ties between Kenya's Borana and Ethiopia's Oromo communities to hide among local populations, according to police reports. The group's activities have caused significant suffering in the area.
The operation follows discussions between Kenyan President William Ruto and Ethiopia's intelligence chief Redwan Hussien at State House, Nairobi. Kenya's intelligence director Noordin Haji attended the meeting.
The OLA operates as an armed opposition group in Ethiopia's Oromia Region. Its members include former fighters who rejected a peace deal with the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) and youth protesters who abandoned non-violent resistance.
Police Inspector General Douglas Kanja said the operation targets various criminal activities. These include arms trafficking, drug trade, human trafficking, illegal mining, tribal conflicts, and kidnapping for ransom in several sub-counties.
Security forces have declared the area a special zone due to increased gang activity. Criminals have targeted gold mining sites, resulting in multiple deaths. Local authorities report a rise in human trafficking cases.
No arrests have been made yet. Police have asked local communities to remain calm and continue their daily activities. They emphasized the importance of cooperation between residents and security teams during the operation.
The operation represents a joint effort between Kenyan and Ethiopian authorities to address security challenges in the border region. Both countries have accused the OLA of criminal activities in the area.
A new security operation targeting the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) began on February 3 in northern Kenya. The operation, named "Ondoa Jangili," led to raids on militia hideouts in Sololo and Merti Sub-Counties.
Security teams seized weapons, ammunition, communication equipment, and marijuana from the sites. Police spokesman Michael Muchiri said these raids mark the start of efforts to remove criminals from the region.
The OLA has used family ties between Kenya's Borana and Ethiopia's Oromo communities to hide among local populations, according to police reports. The group's activities have caused significant suffering in the area.
The operation follows discussions between Kenyan President William Ruto and Ethiopia's intelligence chief Redwan Hussien at State House, Nairobi. Kenya's intelligence director Noordin Haji attended the meeting.
The OLA operates as an armed opposition group in Ethiopia's Oromia Region. Its members include former fighters who rejected a peace deal with the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) and youth protesters who abandoned non-violent resistance.
Police Inspector General Douglas Kanja said the operation targets various criminal activities. These include arms trafficking, drug trade, human trafficking, illegal mining, tribal conflicts, and kidnapping for ransom in several sub-counties.
Security forces have declared the area a special zone due to increased gang activity. Criminals have targeted gold mining sites, resulting in multiple deaths. Local authorities report a rise in human trafficking cases.
No arrests have been made yet. Police have asked local communities to remain calm and continue their daily activities. They emphasized the importance of cooperation between residents and security teams during the operation.
The operation represents a joint effort between Kenyan and Ethiopian authorities to address security challenges in the border region. Both countries have accused the OLA of criminal activities in the area.
