MANDERA, Kenya – Authorities in Mandera have turned to local elders to secure the release of five chiefs abducted near the Kenya-Somalia border on Monday.
Security officials say the chiefs, who were taken by unknown individuals and are believed to be inside Somalia, stand the best chance of being freed through traditional negotiation methods.
The abduction occurred as the chiefs were traveling between Bamba Owla and Ires Suki on their way to Elwak.
They were scheduled to meet and coordinate security plans ahead of President William Ruto’s visit to the region.
Authorities suspect Somalia-based al-Shabaab militants are behind the attack, though no group has claimed responsibility.
Five Chiefs Kidnapped in Mandera Ambush Ahead of Ruto’s Visit ynews.digital/newsflash/five…
In response, security forces launched an operation, but efforts were slowed when an official vehicle hit an improvised explosive device.
Despite the attack, President Ruto’s visit to northern Kenya will proceed as planned.
He is expected to hold a Cabinet meeting in Garissa and tour Mandera, Wajir, Isiolo, and Marsabit counties.
The abduction is the latest in a series of security incidents in Mandera, a region frequently targeted by militants crossing from Somalia.
In December, a Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) driver was shot dead in Lafey, and his vehicle was stolen.
Authorities say multi-agency operations have prevented dozens of attacks in the region, but threats persist.
The government has pledged more resources to bolster security in border areas.
