The National Government has launched the construction of the Basir security command centre in Eldas North Sub-County, Wajir, targeting rising cases of drug trafficking and human smuggling along a known transit route. The project, unveiled during a groundbreaking ceremony, aims to tighten surveillance and improve response in the remote Basir corridor, which has long been exploited by criminal networks.
Wajir County Commissioner Karuku Ngumo said the corridor, located more than 200 kilometres from Wajir town, has remained difficult to police due to its vast terrain. He noted that traffickers have been using the route to move drugs, especially marijuana from neighbouring countries, through Marsabit, Wajir and Isiolo to other parts of the country.
Basir security command centre to boost operations
The Basir security command centre is a joint effort between the County Security and Intelligence Committee and the National Government Constituency Development Fund, with support from Eldas MP Adan Keynan.
It will host multiple security units, including the General Service Unit (GSU), Kenya Police Service (KPS), Administration Police Service (APS) and the National Intelligence Service (NIS), to strengthen coordination and crack down on organised crime. Ngumo said the government is committed to ending the illegal trade, warning that it continues to harm young people and weaken the country’s future.
“The government will do whatever it takes to ensure drug trafficking and human smuggling are stopped. These activities are destroying our youth and undermining the future of our country,” the County Commissioner said.