Governor Godhana arrested over inter-clan clashes in Tana River

By Peter Ochieng

Two political leaders have been arrested, in relation to inter-clan clashes in Tana River County.

Tana River governor Godhana Dhado Gaddae and Galole Member of Parliament (MP) Hiribae Said Buya were arrested by detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).

They were apprehended after failing to honour summons, to shed more light on what they maybe knowing about the clashes.

The arrest was confirmed by the Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Mohamed Amin.

“It is true we have arrested Tana River Governor and Galole MP Said Hiribae. The two politicians were summoned to our offices over the ongoing clashes in Tana River but they failed to honor summons,” said the DCI.

“We are looking forward to prosecuting those who will be found culpable over what is being witnessed in Tana River, when we are through with the probe," he added.

However, reports indicate that the the governor availed himself at DCI headquarters in Nairobi on Saturday morning, while the MP was allegedly arrested in Mombasa.

The clashes, which began early this month with a shooting in the Anole area that killed five people.

On Friday, the government declared several parts of Tana River County as security-disturbed and dangerous, on the backdrop of worsening inter-clan clashes.

The clashes have claimed the lives of at least 14 people so far.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, on Friday announced the move after consultations with the National Security Council.

“This notice shall take effect from 6:30 p.m. on October 11, 2024, for a period of 30 days and may, at any time, be withdrawn or extended by notice in the Gazette,” said the CS.

The declaration affects 12 locations across Bangale and Tana North sub-counties: Madogo, Areri, Saka, Sala, Mororo, Mbalambala, Hirimani, Hosingo, Dukanotu, Chewele, Nanighi, and Bura.

The order will remain in effect for 30 days, but could be extended if necessary.