Tana River Governor and MP Arrested
“We look forward to prosecuting those who will be found culpable over what is being witnessed in Tana River when we are through with the probe,”
Tana River Governor Dadho Godhana. Photo/The Standard.
By Robert Mutasi
Tana River Governor Dhadho Gaddae and Galole MP Said Hiribae Buya have been taken into custody in connection with ongoing investigations into clashes in Tana River County.
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, the two leaders were taken into custody on Saturday after failing to honor summons regarding their involvement in the clashes.
Reports indicate that Governor Gaddae voluntarily presented himself at the DCI headquarters on Saturday.
But MP Buya was arrested at his Nyali home in Mombasa at about 2 am the same day.
After his arrest, Buya was taken to Makupa Police Station before being transferred to the DCI headquarters along Kiambu Road where both politicians are currently being grilled.
DCI boss Amin Mohamed confirmed the arrests, saying both Gaddae and Buya were summoned to appear at the DCI offices to answer questions relating to the clashes but failed to honor that call.
“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,” Mohamed said.
The DCI has launched a comprehensive investigation into the violence cases that have left Tana River in extensive unrest.
Police authorities believe the skirmishes could be politically instigated and that efforts are underway to identify and prosecute the masterminds behind incitement or participation in the violence.
Mohamed further declared that the investigation was still ongoing, with more arrests likely to take place.
“We look 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 said.
The arrests have increased tensions in Tana River, where residents keenly follow developments related to the incidents.
The raids have caused disruption of life in the region, with the local population facing displacement and insecurity.
The authorities are racing against pressure to restore peace and bring to book those responsible for fueling the conflict.
As the DCI continues with the probe, more information related to the nature of clashes and involvement of local politicians in violence is likely to emerge.
Both Gaddae and Buya are likely to face legal proceedings if evidence of their involvement is found.
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