A National Police Reservist (NPR) was killed in a raid by suspected al-Shabaab militants in the Iressuki area of Elwak, Mandera County. The attackers targeted the residence of Abidkar Ibrahim, the NPR head in charge of the Mandera governor’s office, before engaging in a firefight with police reservists. Local authorities reported that the assailants escaped, with some sustaining injuries.
Mandera Governor Mohamed Adan condemned the attack, stating that security agencies had been warned in advance but failed to act. “Intelligence was relayed as late as Sunday, but no action was taken,” he said.
Escalating Security Concerns
The attack in Mandera follows a deadly assault in Fafi, Garissa County, on Sunday, where six NPR officers were killed, and six AK-47 rifles, three magazines, and a rocket-propelled grenade were seized by militants. During that attack, 16 officers were at the camp, and six remain unaccounted for, raising fears of abduction.
Authorities have also reported increased al-Shabaab movement along the Kenya-Somalia border. On March 15, about 150 operatives raided Mangai village in Boni, Lamu County, where they confronted residents and distributed food before disappearing.
Government Response and Travel Warnings
Security operations have been intensified, with multi-agency teams dispatched to pursue the attackers. National Police Service spokesman Michael Muchiri said measures are being taken to counter the persistent threat.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi has issued a travel advisory warning its citizens against visiting border counties, including Mandera, Garissa, Wajir, and parts of Lamu and Tana River, citing risks of crime, terrorism, and kidnapping.
Authorities urge residents to remain vigilant as patrols and surveillance efforts continue to curb further attacks.
