Guyo takes leading role in taming insecurity in Isiolo’s volatile areas

Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo has taken a leading role in the county’s intensified security crackdown, visiting to Kuro Bisan Owo Springs and the Chari Grazing Belt—areas hit hardest by recent insecurity.

 The governor walked into the epicentre of tension, standing with shaken families and listening to herders who recounted attacks, disruptions and the growing fear.

 During the visit, the governor held candid discussions with community members and elders, hearing firsthand how the incursions have destabilised daily life.

 His message was firm: Isiolo will not allow external aggressors to threaten its people or encroach on its grazing lands.

 “We lost two people here recently because our neighbours crossed over to this side. We have agreed with the national government that everybody should remain on their side,” Guyo said.

 He emphasised that if neighbouring herders seek grazing land in Isiolo, the request must be channelled through elders for peaceful agreement and coordination.

 “We cannot accept violence, and we cannot allow our people to be killed by individuals from other regions,” he added.

 Earlier this week, two people were killed in the volatile Kom area of Merti subcounty in what officials suspect was an aborted cattle-rustling attempt.

 Reports indicated that armed bandits had crossed into the Isiolo border area from Samburu East and Laisamis, sparking renewed tensions and fear among communities.

 In response, the governor declared his administration’s full commitment to partnering with the national government to restore stability.

 He said security teams have already been mobilised to reinforce surveillance, protect grazing corridors and dismantle armed criminal networks operating along the Isiolo–Samburu border.

 “Isiolo will not allow criminal elements to endanger our people. We are taking decisive and coordinated measures to protect communities, secure grazing areas and safeguard livelihoods,” he said.

 The governor further stressed the need to disarm and eliminate all illegal armed groups infiltrating the county.

 “Our security teams are fully engaged and we remain committed to restoring lasting peace and ensuring the safety and stability of every household in Isiolo,” he said.

 Beyond security commitments, Guyo delivered humanitarian support to the affected families—food, fuel and assorted relief supplies.

 Elders and herders expressed gratitude, commending his swift action and continued presence whenever insecurity escalates.

 Security preparations are now underway. Following a closed-door meeting with senior security officials, the county boss confirmed that officers will be deployed urgently to identified hotspots.

 A specialised unit has been cleared for rapid response operations and tasked with pursuing, intercepting and neutralising the bandits responsible for the latest attacks.

 County authorities are shifting from a reactive to an offensive security by tightening border patrols, increasing surveillance and implementing a coordinated strategy designed to restore law and order while preventing future incursions.

 The administration’s stance signals a clear shift that Isiolo is drawing a firm line against escalating lawlessness.

 “Peace will be restored, grazing belts will be secured, and every household will feel the presence and protection of a government that refuses to look away,” he said.

 Isiolo Woman Representative Mumina Bonaya echoed the governor’s concerns, accusing a neighbouring community of invading Isiolo territory and triggering the attack that left two people dead.

 “We have come here to discuss how to end this problem. Our people have talked. They have so many challenges and insecurity is leading,” she said.

 Bonaya said residents urgently need enhanced security for themselves, their livestock and their property in light of frequent attacks and thefts.

 “We have engaged the national government, including Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen and Police IG Douglas Kanja, on the security situation in the area,” she added.

 As Isiolo steps up its security operations, both county and national leaders have pledged to stand with affected communities until calm, safety and stability are fully restored.