Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr Fred Matiang’i has ordered security agencies in North Eastern to immediately seize movement of contraband goods in the region.
The CS noted that the goods have been used to fund terrorism in the region and Kenya at large adding that traders and locals dealing in contraband goods are the reason why fighting terrorism has been a challenge.
“I urge government officials to take this war seriously and stop the trade of these smuggled goods. They are funding terrorism,” the CS said on Monday.
CS Matiang'i addressing leaders and security agents in Garissa [Source/Twitter/Bashir Dagane Haji]
Reports from intelligence departments have indicated that unofficial routes are key in enabling contraband goods to find their way in the Kenyan market, while Al-Shabaab leaders are the ones who pocket all the profit and fund their illegal activities.
“Chiefs and their assistants must be accountable. There is no excuse. You must hold regular meetings to know where the problem is,” said the CS.
Dr Matiang’i was speaking on Monday in Garissa Town where he addressed regional, County and Sub-County security committees.
He was accompanied by Hilary Mutyambai who is the Inspector General of Police, Governor Ali Korane, Governor Ali Roba and Wajir Deputy Governor Ahmed Ali.
This visit follows the brutal murder of three teachers in Kamuthey and four children who were learning at Saretho Primary School.
He added that the government will install surveillance cameras along the Kenyan borders so as to help curb the flow of illicit goods and immigrants into the country.