Security agencies have identified organized criminal syndicates operating across Garissa and neighboring Madogo town as the key suspects behind a string of unresolved murder cases that have rocked the two towns in recent months.

Northeastern Regional Commissioner John Otieno said investigations have established a connection between criminal activities in Garissa and Madogo, which lies across the Tana River.

He noted that the gangs are exploiting the porous border between Garissa and Tana River counties to evade detection.

“We are coordinating with our counterparts in Tana River County to end this issue. The patrol in Garissa town will be enhanced,” said Otieno.

He explained that a joint security operation involving teams from both counties is underway to dismantle the networks behind the killings and restore calm in the affected areas.

“We have realized that there is a nexus between the criminal activities in Garissa town and Madogo, and the two county security teams will engage to make sure that they deal with the situations that take place in the neighboring town which is in Tana River and Garissa town,” he added.

Commissioner Otieno revealed that Garissa town has now been divided into security sectors, each with intensified police presence and high-level monitoring to deter criminal elements.

“The patrols in this town which have been in place are going to be enhanced. A very heavy deployment in Garissa, and this town has been sectorized.

All those sectors have a heavy deployment with senior officers monitoring the deployments so that we have adequate security within the town and members of the public can be able to go about their businesses without fear.”

The activities are aimed at improving public safety and boosting confidence in law enforcement in the restive region.

Residents have been living in fear following a series of violent incidents, including targeted killings and attacks on civilians and traders.

A deadly night raid at Ummu Salama Secondary School in Garissa County last week claimed the life of one security guard and left another seriously injured after unknown assailants stormed the institution late Thursday night.

According to a Police report, the two night watchmen were on duty when the attackers descended on the school under the cover of darkness.

One of the guards suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead shortly after being rushed to Garissa County Referral Hospital. The second guard is currently receiving treatment for his injuries.

Otieno said authorities have launched investigations into the incident, with security teams pursuing leads to identify and apprehend those behind the attack.

The motive remains unclear. The incident has sparked fresh concerns over the safety of educational institutions in the region.