Kitui County Governor H.E Dr. Julius Malombe has strongly condemned the deadly attack that claimed seven lives in Kwa Kamari area, Mulangoni Village in Tseikuru Ward, Mwingi North Sub-County, describing the incident as “tragic, heinous and unacceptable.”

While addressing the media at his office on Monday April 27, following the Saturday, April 25, 2026 attack, Governor Malombe expressed profound sorrow over the killings and extended heartfelt condolences to the affected families on behalf of the County Government of Kitui and the people of the county. “It is with profound sorrow and a deep sense of loss that I address you today following the tragic and heinous attack,” the Governor stated.

The Governor said seven innocent residents lost their lives during the attack while several others sustained injuries and were rushed to Mwingi Level IV Hospital for treatment. He also noted that many families were displaced after armed attackers invaded Kwa Kamari trading centre.

According to preliminary reports, the attackers, suspected to be armed militia of Somali origin, stormed the area during the day, targeting residents and businesses around Kwa Kamari trading centre. Besides the killings, the attackers allegedly destroyed four shops, a petrol station and a motorbike, leaving behind widespread destruction and fear among residents.

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The bandits also reportedly attacked Kwa Kamari Police Station where they fired gunshots and smashed several window panes.

Governor Malombe termed the incident deeply regrettable, saying no grievance or conflict could justify the loss of innocent lives and destruction of livelihoods.

The Governor revealed that information gathered from security teams on the ground indicated that the violence may have been linked to earlier inter-community tensions arising from disputes between local farmers and herders in March 2026.

While emphasizing that security remains a function of the National Government, Governor Malombe urged security agencies to move swiftly and ensure that those responsible for the killings are apprehended and prosecuted.

He welcomed the prompt response by senior security officials, including the Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat and the General Service Unit (GSU) Commandant, who visited the affected area and assured residents of enhanced security operations.

The Governor further appealed to residents to cooperate with investigators by providing any information that could assist in tracking down the attackers.

In a major security proposal, Governor Malombe called for immediate eviction of herders, charcoal burners and criminals hiding within the Mwingi National Reserve.

He requested the National Police Service, General Service Unit, Kenya Wildlife Service and Kenya Forest Service to work jointly with County Game Rangers in conducting a coordinated security operation within the reserve.

The Governor also renewed calls for the operationalization of Kwa Kamari Police Station, one of the eight police stations being constructed by the County Government along the volatile Kitui–Tana River border.

He noted that the County Government had already fulfilled its commitment by constructing major facilities at Kwa Kamari Police Station, including an administration block, staff quarters, pit latrine, solar system, floodlights, fencing and a gate.

Governor Malombe said other completed police stations include Mandongoi in Ngomeni Ward, Kwa Ngongoo in Nuu Ward, Twambui in Endau/Malalani Ward, Imuumba in Voo/Kyamatu Ward, Kona Kaliti in Mutha Ward and the ongoing Kituvwi Police Station in Kanziku Ward.

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He further disclosed that the County Government is installing water tanks in several completed stations and plans to drill and equip boreholes to ensure adequate water supply for police officers expected to be deployed.

The Governor urged the National Government to deploy enough security personnel and resources to the completed stations in order to strengthen security along the Kitui-Tana River border.

On humanitarian intervention, Governor Malombe said the County Government had already dispatched medical and emergency teams to Tseikuru Sub-County Hospital to treat the injured and offer psychosocial support to displaced families.

He added that consultations were ongoing to determine additional support that could be extended to the bereaved families and survivors.

Governor Malombe also appealed to residents of Tseikuru and the entire county to remain calm, vigilant and continue reporting suspicious activities to security agencies.

He assured residents that his administration would continue working closely with the National Cohesion and Integration Commission and the County Security Team to strengthen peacebuilding initiatives aimed at promoting harmony among communities living along the border region.

The Governor concluded by urging all relevant agencies to act with urgency, professionalism and accountability in addressing recurring insecurity challenges in the Kitui-Tana River border areas. “Going forward, the safety and security of our people must be assured and should never be compromised,” Governor Malombe said.

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