Former DP Rigathi Gachagua has strongly condemned the killing of six Kenyans in Arabia Sub-County, Mandera County, following what he described as an act of aggression by illegal foreign Jubaland forces operating inside Kenyan territory.
In a written statement, Gachagua termed the attack a tragic loss of innocent lives and expressed sympathy to the affected families.
“I send my deepest condolences to the families of the six innocent Kenyans who were brutally killed in Arabia Sub-County, Mandera County. I also wish the seven injured a quick and full recovery,” he said.
The former DP linked the incident to earlier warnings he had issued regarding the presence of Jubaland forces within Kenya’s borders. According to him, the occupation of large parts of Mandera Town by the foreign forces had already raised serious security concerns.
Last year, Gachagua warned about what he described as a growing threat posed by the illegal presence of Jubaland troops in the Republic of Kenya. He now says the latest killings have confirmed those fears.
“This tragic incident has sadly confirmed those fears,” he stated.
Calls for Immediate Removal of Foreign Forces
Gachagua called for the immediate removal of all foreign forces operating illegally within the area, arguing that Kenya’s sovereignty and the safety of its citizens must remain a priority.
He strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a heinous act that cannot be ignored.
“I strongly condemn this heinous act and demand the immediate removal of all illegal foreign forces from the area,” he said.
The former Deputy President further stressed that the country must protect its territorial integrity and avoid compromising national security for political or economic interests.
“The safety, sovereignty, and dignity of Kenyan citizens must be protected at all cost,” he added.
National Security Concerns Raised
The incident has renewed concerns over security along the Kenya-Somalia border, particularly in Mandera County, where cross-border tensions and armed incursions have remained a recurring challenge.
Gachagua argued that the country cannot afford to compromise its territorial integrity for what he termed as “cheap business and political gains” pursued by a few individuals in leadership.
“We cannot trade the territorial integrity of our nation for cheap business and political gains of a few individuals at the helm of our nation,” he said.
The attack and the remarks by Gachagua are expected to intensify debate over border security and the presence of foreign armed groups within Kenyan territory.
