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Four killed, 11 injured in terror attack at Mandera eatery

By Adan Mohamed | Monday, March 25, 2024

Police say an IED exploded at the Fish Point Kiosk, which is frequented by non-locals and Mandera security officers.

Three police officers and a civilian were killed in a terror attack at an eatery in Mandera County on Monday morning, County Commander Samuel Mutunga has confirmed.

In a press briefing following the improvised explosive device (IED) attack at the Fish Point Kiosk, Mutunga also reported that 11 people were wounded.

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The killed civilian worked at the establishment.

Mandera County Commander Samuel Mutunga is pictured in his office on March 25, 2024, following a terror attack at an eatery. (Photo: Adan Mohamed)

Earlier, the police said they received reports of an explosion at that kiosk at about 10.30 am.

"Upon following up, it was established that an IED had been planted at the kiosk, which is frequented by non-locals, and our security officers," they said in a report.

A multi-agency team responded, rushing survivors to the Mandera County Referral Hospital, the police added.

Mutunga said the device was likely planted in the night and that two of the survivors, who suffered critical injuries, would be airlifted to Nairobi for advanced medical care.

The county commander cautioned against large gatherings and urged the public to report any suspicious activities to security agencies.

The aftermath of a terror attack at an eatery in Mandera County on March 25, 2024. (Photo: X/ Counter Terrorism Policing KE)

Mandera Governor Mohamed Adan Khalif condemned the attack "in the strongest terms," terming it "cowardly and heinous" and noted that the government remained committed to peace and security.

“Today's unfortunate incident will not deter our tireless efforts and commitment to matters about peace and security," he said, adding the county was working closely with security agencies to pursue the criminals behind the "senseless" attack and prevent such incidents from recurring.

"My heartfelt condolences and prayers to the victims and families affected by this tragic incident. I wish the victims who sustained injuries a quick recovery as they receive treatment,” the governor said.

He added, “I assure the families of the victims of our full support during this difficult time and commend the Department of Health Services for the swift response as they attend to the victims who sustained injuries."

Mohamed further noted that no such ambushes had taken place in Mandera since the kidnapping of two Cuban doctors on April 12, 2019.

On February 27, 2024, the Cuban government confirmed receiving "sensitive" information on the alleged deaths of its doctors, Assel Herrera and Landy Rodríguez Hernández, who were kidnapped by suspected Al-Shabaab militia while offering medical services in Kenya. They were stationed at the Mandera County Referral Hospital.

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriquez said the delegation that came to Kenya in search of clarity following the kidnappings had received information that would enhance the probe into the state of the two doctors.

He said the information was being processed for appropriate action to be taken.