Tension is high in Mandera East after several police officers were injured following an improvised explosive device (IED) attack on their vehicle along the Gadudia-Laga Road on Tuesday morning.
According to reports from security officials, the incident happened as the officers were on patrol in the area, which is close to the Kenya-Somalia border. The vehicle, a police Land Cruiser, was hit by a powerful explosion suspected to have been planted on the roadside by unknown attackers.
Eyewitnesses said the explosion was loud and could be heard from several kilometers away. “We heard a loud blast and saw smoke rising from the area. Later, we saw helicopters arriving to airlift the injured,” said a resident of Gadudia village.
At least five officers are believed to have sustained serious injuries, with some suffering broken limbs and burns. They were rushed to a local hospital for emergency treatment before being airlifted to Nairobi for specialized care. The exact number of injured officers is yet to be confirmed by the authorities.
Security teams were immediately deployed to the area to pursue the suspects and secure the scene. No group has claimed responsibility so far, but such attacks have in the past been linked to Al-Shabaab militants operating in the region.
The incident comes just weeks after security agencies warned of increased threats in border towns. Local leaders have called on the government to boost surveillance and deploy more security personnel in Mandera to protect both residents and officers.
“This is a clear sign that more needs to be done to fight terrorism in northern Kenya. Our police officers deserve better protection,” said a local official.
Police have urged residents in the area to remain calm but vigilant and to report any suspicious activities. Investigations into the attack are ongoing.
Mandera has remained a hotspot for terror attacks over the years, with several security personnel and civilians losing their lives to roadside bombs and ambushes.
The government has promised to intensify its operations to restore peace and safety in the region.
By Kenyans