Police Seize Ammunition, Military Gear in Isiolo Roadblock

Isiolo, 

Friday, 29 November, 2024 

McCreadie Andias, 

In a major security operation early this morning, police in Isiolo successfully intercepted a vehicle transporting a significant cache of military equipment and live ammunition, leading to the arrest of four suspects. The operation took place at the Hospital Junction along the Marsabit-Isiolo road at approximately 1:30 am.

Officers manning a routine roadblock stopped a Mitsubishi Fuso lorry, registration number KCY 271N. 

Upon conducting a thorough search of the vehicle, police uncovered a concealed brown bag containing 158 rounds of live ammunition, including 142 rounds of 7.62×39mm ammunition, commonly used in AK-47 rifles, and 16 rounds of 9mm ammunition, typically used in pistols. 

In addition to the ammunition, the police also found a variety of military gear, including two pairs of military boots, a rifle cleaning kit, a military camelbak, tactical and combat shirts, military trousers, and a ground sheet.

The four individuals on board the lorry—identified as Arako Abdullahi, the driver, along with Ali Hussein (28), Udheifa Yusuf Garre (20), and Khalid Abdi Rashid Garre (18)—were promptly arrested. The suspects, along with the vehicle, were detained at the Isiolo Police Station for further investigation.

A multi-agency team has already begun interrogating the suspects, though authorities have yet to disclose the full extent of the investigation. 

The discovery of such a large cache of military gear and live ammunition has raised concerns about the potential for illegal activities, with authorities now intensifying their efforts to uncover the full scope of the operation and the intended use of the contraband.

The interception is part of ongoing efforts by Kenyan law enforcement to curb the flow of illegal weapons and military supplies in the region, particularly in light of recent security challenges and rising concerns over armed violence and insurgent activities in parts of the country.

Isiolo County, located in the arid and semi-arid regions of Kenya, has seen an increase in such operations as authorities heighten their vigilance to curb the spread of illegal arms. 

The area has also been a hotspot for various security challenges, ranging from cattle rustling to militia-related activity, and the authorities remain on high alert.

With the continued support of local and national security agencies, police in Isiolo hope to further disrupt the illegal trade in weapons and ensure that those responsible for such illegal activities are brought to justice.

As the investigation unfolds, authorities are urging members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities that could jeopardize the safety and security of the region.