NAIROBI, Kenya — Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has formally declared sections of Marsabit County as security-disturbed and dangerous, citing escalating banditry and inter-communal violence in the region.
The declaration, made in consultation with the National Security Council (NSC) and the National Police Service (NPS), was published in the Kenya Gazette on April 24, invoking Section 106(6) of the National Police Service Act 2011.
“IN EXERCISE of the powers conferred… the Cabinet Secretary declares parts of Marsabit County as security disturbed and dangerous,” the notice reads.
The directive took effect on April 23, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. and will remain in force for 30 days, subject to extension or early withdrawal depending on the evolving security situation.
Thirteen areas—largely under the “Hillo” designation—have been placed under the order. These include Hillo Gorgora, Hillo Orofa, Hillo Walkite, Hillo Tanzania, Hillo Irress Abamartille, Hillo Gootu, and Hillo Tessum Qalicha. Others listed are Hillo Karray, Hillo Hudda, Hillo Qoranjido, Hillo Irress Shindia, Hillo Rabaalee, and Hillo Godde Haroressa.
The move grants security agencies expanded powers to restore order in what authorities describe as a rapidly deteriorating environment marked by cycles of retaliatory attacks between rival communities, often linked to disputes over grazing land and livestock.
Inspector General Douglas Kanja has reinforced the directive by ordering residents in the affected areas to surrender illegal firearms immediately, warning of strict enforcement measures against non-compliance.
The unrest in Marsabit has been compounded by tensions surrounding the construction of a new security installation along the Marsabit–Wajir border, further inflaming local grievances.
Travel advisories have also flagged the region as high-risk, particularly areas within 110 kilometres of the South Sudan and Ethiopia borders, where armed banditry remains prevalent.
This marks the second such declaration by Murkomen in recent weeks, following similar orders issued in parts of Laikipia, Meru, and Isiolo counties, signalling a broader national security push to contain banditry across northern Kenya.
