Saddening; Daylight Drama As Police Officer Is Shot Dead in Isiolo Drug Trafficking Ambush

A police officer was tragically killed while pursuing a gang involved in drug trafficking in Isiolo County.

Constable Wilson Ndurya Changawa, 45, lost his life during an operation on Friday evening, leaving his family grieving and colleagues vowing to bring the attackers to justice.

Police said the team had been patrolling the Dima Ado area after receiving intelligence about illegal drugs and foreigners being moved across the Ewaso Nyiro River.

The suspects were reportedly heading towards Kulamawe for further trafficking.

Following tracks along the riverbanks, the officers were ambushed by heavily armed men, believed to be linked to the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF).

A fierce gunfight broke out, during which Constable Changawa was shot in the neck and died instantly.

The other officers had no choice but to retreat, carrying his body back to the local mortuary. Police are yet to confirm how many attackers were involved or the fate of the drugs.

This attack illustrates how criminal gangs along the Kenya-Ethiopia border are growing bolder.

Authorities say the route is commonly used for trafficking narcotics and moving people illegally.

The region has faced several security challenges, including cattle rustling, armed robberies, attacks on gold mining sites, and human smuggling.

In response, security forces launched an operation targeting OLF hideouts in the area.

The operation has recovered weapons, ammunition, walkie-talkies, solar panels, generators, and marijuana, all suspected to be used in the gang’s criminal activities.

The operation, which began in February, aims to dismantle networks exploiting cultural and family ties between the Borana community in Kenya and the Oromo in Ethiopia.

Police noted that most narcotics in the region originate from southern Ethiopia and are destined for Nairobi and other major towns.

Border towns such as Moyale, Sololo, and Dukana are frequently used as entry points, with traffickers moving consignments further south.

Authorities promised to pursue the suspects relentlessly and called on local residents to report suspicious activities.

Constable Changawa’s death has left a deep mark on the police force and the community, underscoring the dangers officers face while enforcing the law.

Police continue to strengthen security along the northern border to prevent further attacks and disrupt criminal operations.