Governor Mohamed Adan Khalif of Mandera County in Kenya’s north-east region has condemned what he describes as a savage act of terrorism targeting a local restaurant, claiming the lives of at least three individuals, among them a dedicated police officer.
Governor Khalif took to the social media platform X on Monday, sharing poignant images of a devastated building in the aftermath of the attack in Mandera town, located along the contentious border with Somalia. His condemnation echoed with resolute determination, condemning the assault in the strongest of terms.
Initial reports from regional media sources suggest that the targeted restaurant was in close proximity to a police station, and tragically, one of the casualties was a valiant member of law enforcement.
While investigations by the Associated Press news agency point towards an improvised explosive device (IED) as the cause of the explosion, authorities are quick to attribute responsibility to the notorious al-Shabab group. Meanwhile, al-Shabab has remained silent.
The surge in al-Shabab incursions across Kenya has been particularly alarming since the onset of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, casting a shadow of fear and uncertainty over the region.