The National Police Service (NPS) has dismissed reports circulating on social media that Sadam Buke, a resident of Isiolo County, was abducted. In an official statement released on Friday, February 7, 2025, the NPS clarified that Buke is in lawful custody, facing allegations of facilitating and coordinating activities for the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) in Isiolo and Marsabit counties.
Buke Arrested in Ongoing Security Operation
According to the police, Buke was apprehended as part of the ongoing ‘Operation Ondoa Jangili,’ a security crackdown aimed at combating banditry and illegal militias in northern Kenya. The operation has been active in Marsabit and Isiolo, areas that have long struggled with insecurity linked to armed groups.
Police spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga confirmed that Buke, along with other suspects, is set to be arraigned in court. However, no details were provided regarding the specific charges he faces or the exact date of his court appearance.
“We wish to clarify that Sadam Buke is in lawful custody alongside others. He is suspected of being a key facilitator and coordinator of the Oromo Liberation Army in both Isiolo and Marsabit Counties,” the statement read in part.
Government Dismisses Abduction Claims
Buke’s reported disappearance had sparked widespread speculation online, with some claiming he had been forcibly taken by unknown individuals. Such claims have fueled public concern over enforced disappearances, a contentious issue in Kenya, where past cases of individuals vanishing under unclear circumstances have raised questions about extra-judicial actions by security agencies.
The police have, however, dismissed these allegations, stating that Buke’s arrest was conducted in accordance with the law and that he remains in official custody. The statement further reiterated the NPS’s commitment to upholding human rights and fundamental freedoms, in line with Kenya’s constitutional standards.
Operation Ondoa Jangili: A Wider Security Crackdown
‘Operation Ondoa Jangili’ was launched as part of the government’s intensified efforts to restore security in volatile regions, particularly in northern Kenya. The operation targets criminal elements, including bandits and militia groups, blamed for escalating violence in Marsabit, Isiolo, and other parts of the country.
The arrest of Buke signals a broader effort by security forces to dismantle networks associated with the OLA, a rebel group that has been linked to cross-border security threats. Authorities believe that local collaborators provide logistical support to such groups, enabling them to operate within Kenya’s borders.
What Next for Buke?
While police have confirmed that Buke will be taken to court, human rights groups and political leaders from Isiolo are likely to demand transparency in the legal process. Past security operations in northern Kenya have been met with criticism, with some leaders accusing law enforcement of targeting specific communities under the guise of fighting crime.
The NPS has assured the public that due process will be followed in handling Buke’s case, emphasizing their commitment to lawful procedures. However, the case is expected to draw significant public interest, particularly from human rights organizations monitoring security operations in the region.
Final Thoughts
Buke’s arrest underscores the growing scrutiny on Kenya’s security forces as they balance counterterrorism efforts with human rights concerns. As the case unfolds, many will be watching closely to see whether his trial sheds light on the extent of OLA’s activities within the country and the government’s broader strategy in dealing with armed groups.
