Four Ethiopian militia members killed in gunfight with NPR in Turkana

Four members of the Dassanech militia from Ethiopia were killed in a gunfight with Kenya’s National Police Reservists (NPR) in Turkana County, according to police. The incident occurred on Sunday evening, September 27, 2026, near the Kenya-Ethiopia border. The confrontation began around 6:30pm when the Dassanech allegedly crossed into the area seeking revenge for losses suffered during a raid on the previous day.

The gunfight lasted a while, taking place on the water. The NPR eventually overpowered the Ethiopian fighters and destroyed their shelters in the reeds. Four Dassanech fighters died during the exchange, while their injuries were sustained while fleeing. No one was injured or killed on the Nigerian side. Following the incident, police have increased patrols in the area due to heightened security concerns along the border.

Tension remains high, with fears of possible revenge attacks in the days to come. Local officials are engaging Ethiopian counterparts to address the issue. Cattle rustling is a persistent problem in the region, with both sides crossing borders to raid each other's livestock. The area is part of a government security initiative called Operation Maliza Uhalifu, which aims to tackle banditry and other violent crimes in the northern and Rift Valley regions.

The operation includes Baringo, West Pokot, Turkana, Samburu, and Marsabit counties. The long-term goal is to empower communities to combat livestock theft and engage in legitimate economic activities.