Authorities have identified the five quarry workers killed in a Tuesday morning terrorist attack in Mandera East as Mbaabu Karuma, Stephen Mambo, Evas Simiyu, Bernard Masika, and George Kilobi. The victims, all non-locals, were headed to work in Bur Abor Village when suspected al-Shabaab militants ambushed their vehicle, killing them at close range.
According to police, the men were traveling in a matatu without security escort—contrary to the usual precautionary measures. The vehicle’s driver and turnboy were arrested for questioning. Two other workers, Joseph Nduati and Peter Maina, were injured, while 13 others managed to escape and were later located.
The attackers reportedly blocked the road with stones before launching their assault, opening fire and leaving behind 39 spent cartridges. Security personnel responded but found the militants had already fled. The attack has heightened tensions in the region, with additional forces deployed to track the assailants.
Authorities are investigating whether a broader terror network is involved, amid growing concerns over an emerging alliance between al-Shabaab and Yemen’s Houthi rebels. This suspected partnership is believed to be driven by a mutual exchange of arms and finances, raising fears of increased instability across the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region.
