Police Among 3 Dead After Explosion Reported In Mandera

Three people are reported to have been killed and two injured following an explosion that occurred near a police station in Mandera County.

Viral Tea understands that among the three killed included two police officers and a woman said to have owned a hotel opposite a hospital in the area.

"Suspected Al Shabaab militants set off a bomb inside a hotel in Mandera, killing 2 police officers and a woman, who is said to have been the hotel owner," stated Crime & Terrorism Watch Kenya on X.

The hotel, situated directly opposite Shamaal Hospital, was rocked by a suspected terror attack, sparking widespread condemnation from the residents.

Scene after an explosion occurred at Mandera on March 25, 2024. /CRIME & TERRORISM WATCH KENYA 

Officials suspected that Al Shabaab militants were behind the deadly explosion, which specifically targeted the hotel frequented by security personnel. 

In the wake of the tragedy, Mandera residents have voiced their outrage, labelling the incident as a cowardly act aimed at crippling the local economy and fostering an environment of desperation conducive to recruitment by the terror group.

Mandera Governor, Mohamed Adan Khalif condemned the cowardly and heinous terrorist attack, stating "My heartfelt condolences and prayers to the victims and their families affected by this tragic incident. I equally wish the victims who sustained injuries a quick recovery as they receive treatment."

"Additionally, I would like to assure the families of the victims 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," he added.

The community pledged to bolster its resistance against Al Shabaab and to work closely with security forces to prevent future incidents.

Emergency services responded to the scene, providing medical assistance to the wounded and securing the area as investigations commenced.

Security measures in the town and surrounding areas have since been heightened as authorities seek to apprehend those responsible for the attack.

It comes days after Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki presided over the commissioning of a new fleet of advanced armoured vehicles which will be used for security operations to combat terrorism in the country. 

The new equipment included Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles (MRAPs), Armoured Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)/Drones and Gunship Helicopters.

Scene after an explosion occurred at Mandera on March 25, 2024. /CRIME & TERRORISM WATCH KENYA