Garissa Community in Uproar Over Alleged Police Kidnappings
Garissa County erupted in protest on Thursday as residents, led by local leaders and human rights activists, stormed the Garissa police station demanding answers about the whereabouts of four individuals allegedly abducted by the police.
The demonstrators, who camped outside the station for two hours, engaged in heated discussions with the area OCPD, Edward Imbwaga.
The protest was ignited by the disappearance of Mohamed Buya Shangalow, Mohamed Hussein Ibrahim, Idle Farah, and Osman Yussuf, who have been missing for four months. Despite police denials, eyewitnesses claim the abductees were taken in a vehicle that was spotted at the police station.
The protesters, led by MCA Abdirahman Borr, have given the government a 24-hour ultimatum to produce the missing individuals, threatening massive demonstrations if their demand is not met.
Borr expressed deep concern over the trend of abductions and enforced disappearances, criticizing the government’s failure to protect marginalized communities. He emphasized the urgency of the situation, citing the emotional toll on the families and the potential for escalating inter-clan tensions.
Garissa Township MCA Hussein Dagane echoed these sentiments, highlighting the anxiety and stress caused by these incidents. He stressed the importance of transparency and accountability from the police, urging the government to address the issue promptly to prevent further unrest.
In response, Subcounty Police Commander Edward Imbwaga called for the families and the public to provide information to aid in the investigation. He assured that all proper procedures would be followed and encouraged cooperation to resolve the matter swiftly
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Garissa Community in Uproar Over Alleged Police Kidnappings