- Kitui Governor Julius Malombe Condemns Mwingi North Killings, Urges Swift Action on Border Security
Kitui Governor Julius Malombe Condemns Mwingi North Killings, Urges Swift Action on Border Security
Kitui Governor Julius Malombe has strongly condemned the brutal killings that occurred in Kwa Kamari area of Tseikuru Ward, Mwingi North Sub-County, terming the attack “heinous, senseless, and unacceptable.”
In a press statement issued on April 27, 2026, the Governor expressed deep sorrow over the loss of seven lives following the Saturday daytime attack by suspected armed militia. The assailants reportedly targeted residents and businesses at Kwa Kamari trading centre, leaving behind destruction, fear, and displacement. Several shops, a petrol station, and a motorbike were destroyed, while even the local police station was not spared, with gunshots shattering its windows.
Malombe conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wished a quick recovery to those injured, some of whom are receiving treatment at Mwingi Level IV Hospital. He assured affected families of the county government’s solidarity and support during this difficult time.
Preliminary findings indicate the violence may be linked to earlier inter-community tensions stemming from disputes between farmers and herders in March this year. However, the Governor emphasized that no grievance can justify such loss of innocent lives and destruction of livelihoods.
While reiterating that security is a function of the National Government, Malombe called on security agencies to act swiftly and decisively to apprehend those responsible. He welcomed the presence of senior security officials on the ground, including officers from the National Police Service and the General Service Unit, and urged residents to cooperate with ongoing investigations.
The Governor also renewed calls for immediate action to secure the volatile Kitui–Tana River border, including the eviction of illegal herders, charcoal burners, and suspected criminals from the Mwingi National Reserve. He appealed for coordinated operations involving agencies such as the Kenya Wildlife Service and the Kenya Forest Service.
A key concern raised in the statement was the delayed operationalization of several completed police stations along the border. Malombe noted that the county government has already constructed multiple stations, including the one at Kwa Kamari, and urged the National Government to urgently deploy officers and resources to make them fully functional.
“The safety and security of our people must never be compromised,” Malombe stated, stressing the need for enhanced security presence and faster response to emerging threats.
On the humanitarian front, the county has deployed medical teams to assist the injured and provide psychosocial support to affected families. Plans are also underway to determine further assistance for victims.
The Governor called for calm among residents, urging vigilance and cooperation with security agencies, while also committing to renewed peacebuilding efforts in collaboration with the National Cohesion and Integration Commission to address underlying tensions.
He concluded by calling for urgent, professional, and accountable action from all relevant agencies to end recurring insecurity along the border, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of Kitui residents.
