Deadly Inter-Clan Fighting Erupts in Griftu, Wajir, Leaving One Man Dead and Dozens of Houses Burnt

In a tragic turn of events, the peaceful village of Griftu in Wajir became a battleground for inter-clan fighting, resulting in the death of a 35-year-old man and the destruction of more than 35 houses. The skirmishes took place on Thursday, December 7, leaving many residents displaced and causing widespread chaos and fear.

According to local authorities, the violent clash occurred between the Jibrair and Iris sub-clans of the Degodia clan. The root cause of this conflict was a disputed piece of land that both groups claimed ownership over. As tensions escalated, the two rival factions resorted to the use of firearms, with rifles being the weapon of choice during the prolonged battle that engulfed the village.

Griftu’s geographical proximity meant that the Jibrair and Iris sub-clans were not just adversaries but also neighbors, further exacerbating the intensity of the confrontation. As the situation worsened, distressed residents called the police for assistance, hoping to quell the violence and restore peace.

However, despite law enforcement’s prompt arrival at the scene, their efforts to contain the fighting proved futile. The exchange of gunfire continued unabated until finally subsiding in Jahahir village. The aftermath of this brutal conflict left a trail of destruction, with 35 houses reduced to ashes and countless families displaced from their homes.

Tragically, amidst the ruins, the lifeless body of Eymo Billow was discovered. Billow, a young man of 35, fell victim to the crossfire, sustaining fatal gunshot wounds to his legs and back. The authorities swiftly transported his body to the local mortuary, where a comprehensive autopsy was conducted. Following the completion of the necessary procedures, Billow’s remains were handed over to his grieving family for traditional burial rites.

An investigation into the incident revealed alarming evidence of the weaponry employed during the conflict. Authorities recovered 16 empty cartridges from AK47 rifles and 10 from G3 rifles, indicating the usage of heavy firearms in the fighting. This revelation raises concerns about the accessibility and proliferation of dangerous weapons within the local community.

The repercussions of this violent clash extend beyond the loss of life and property. At least seven individuals sustained injuries during the chaos and were promptly rushed to nearby hospitals for medical treatment. The wounded victims, fortunate to have survived the ordeal, now face a long road to recovery, both physically and emotionally.

The authorities are now faced with the challenging task of restoring peace and stability to Griftu. Immediate measures must be taken to address the underlying causes of this conflict, primarily the land dispute, in order to prevent further violence and bloodshed. Additionally, efforts to promote dialogue and reconciliation between the Jibrair and Iris sub-clans are crucial for fostering long-term peace and harmony in the region.

As the affected families begin the arduous process of rebuilding their lives and homes, it is imperative that the government and humanitarian organizations provide them with the necessary support and assistance. Access to shelter, food, and healthcare must be prioritized to alleviate the suffering caused by this tragic event.

Griftu, once a tranquil village, now bears the scars of a violent clash that tore through its essence. It is our collective responsibility to work towards healing these wounds and ensuring that such devastating conflicts do not recur in the future.