Al Shabaab militants. Isiolo women rep Rehama Jaldesa has said police harassment of youths has increased the number of those joining illegal militia groups. (Photo/Standard.)
Police harassment of the youths has led to many youths joining illegal militant groups such Al Shabaab, Isiolo women rep Rehama Jaldesa has said.According to the lawmaker, the youths form illegal groups to revenge against the police. Jaldesa said police to arrest and harass innocent youths without proper investigations, and in return the youths when released they end up joining the illegal groups to terrorize police and locals.She noted that most families in the county don't trust police officers, thus making it difficult for the security team to get confidential information from the locals."Locals have refused to reveal to the officers who the terrorists are since there is a poor relationship between the officers and locals. I call on officers to stop harassing innocent people and ensure there is a good relationship with the locals who will help end crimes in the county," said the lawmaker. Jaldesa said that about 20 boys have been arrested within the last 6 months without any proper investigation."Unnecessary arrests on youths should stop. Police should conduct a thorough investigation before they arrest, detain and charge terror suspects", she said.She urged Inspector General of police form a special team to investigate Isiolo issues without bias.