The National Police Service has deployed specialized security units along the Nairobi-Garissa Highway following rising insecurity that has disrupted transport and raised fears among travellers and residents.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja said the operation aims to restore calm and improve security along the Mwingi-Garissa route after recent attacks in Tseikuru and Ukasi areas.
Police described the incidents as isolated criminal acts carried out by a small group of individuals but acknowledged that the situation had caused concern among the public and transport operators.
To strengthen security, authorities have deployed elite units including the General Service Unit (GSU) and the Rapid Deployment Unit (RDU) to patrol the highway, escort vehicles and maintain order.
The increased security presence comes after several transport companies suspended services due to safety concerns along the busy road.
Among the affected operators is Pacific Coach, which temporarily halted its Nairobi-Garissa trips and advised passengers to postpone travel plans until the security situation improves.
It cited a recent attack in which one of its buses was stoned, shattering the windscreen and leaving passengers shaken.
The unrest follows a deadly incident reported on April 26 in Tseikuru, Mwingi, where seven people were killed in what investigators believe were retaliatory attacks.
According to police reports, armed attackers raided a village and opened fire before escaping.
Investigators suspect the violence could be linked to earlier tensions involving local residents and a pastoralist community believed to have come from Garissa.
Police have called on residents in Tseikuru, Ukasi and nearby areas to remain calm and avoid actions that could worsen the situation as investigations and security operations continue.
“Additionally, we urge the residents of Tseikuru, Ukasi and surrounding areas to remain calm and go about their lawful business, and not to engage in speculation or actions that could escalate tensions,” the police advised.
The service also appealed to community and political leaders to support peace efforts in the affected region.
“We appeal to community elders, religious leaders, local administrators and political leaders to collaborate with security agencies, encourage peaceful coexistence, and focus on restoring trust and resolving disputes through dialogue and other lawful means,”it added .
