Tragedy In Mandera- Six Dead After Gunmen Ambush Matatu With Passengers

At least six people have been confirmed dead following a brutal armed ambush on a public service vehicle (PSV) in Mandera County. The attack occurred on Saturday, May 9, in the Beer Awayon area along the route to Arabia village in Lafey Constituency.

The victims, who were members of the same family, were traveling from Mandera town to attend an annual Quran recitation gathering. Their journey was cut short when unknown gunmen intercepted the vehicle and opened fire, leaving the matatu riddled with bullets.

Casualties and Missing Persons

In addition to the six fatalities, several other passengers sustained injuries during the assault. Local response teams arrived shortly after the incident to transport the wounded to nearby facilities, including Arabia Sub-County Hospital.

Mandera County Police Commander Robinson Ndiwa confirmed the gravity of the situation, noting that four individuals remain missing following the coordinated strike. The ambush took place just a few kilometers outside of Arabia town, a region that has faced intermittent security challenges in the past.

Leaders Condemn “Barbaric” Act

Lafey Member of Parliament Mohamed Abdikheir issued a stinging condemnation of the attack, describing it as a senseless act of cowardice that has devastated the local community.

“It is with profound sadness that I extend my deepest condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of the six innocent travelers… who were brutally killed by unknown gunmen,” the lawmaker stated. “Such atrocities have no place in our modern society. I urge the government to launch a swift, thorough investigation and enhance security measures to prevent future tragedies.”

Abdikheir called upon investigative agencies to act with speed to ensure the perpetrators are apprehended and prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

Security Situation

As of Monday, May 11, no group has claimed responsibility for the deadly ambush. While authorities have launched a formal investigation, the incident has sparked renewed concerns regarding the safety of travelers along the Mandera-Arabia route.

Security forces are currently combing the area for the missing passengers and tracking the suspects involved in the coordinated attack.