An explosion at a small hotel near a police station in Mandera, northeastern Kenya, resulted in the tragic deaths of four individuals, including three police officers. The incident, which also left several others wounded, occurred during breakfast time when an improvised explosive device planted at the hotel was detonated.
Mandera police chief Samwel Mutunga confirmed that two of the wounded individuals are in critical condition and will be airlifted to Nairobi for further medical treatment. Investigators have pointed to the al-Shabab extremist group, based in East Africa, as the likely perpetrators of the attack, although the group has not claimed responsibility.
This explosion follows a separate attack in Lamu County on Sunday, where two police reservists lost their lives. The region, known for its forested areas, has been a target for security operations due to its history as a hideout for al-Shabab militants.
During a recent police operation in Garissa County, authorities seized materials used to make improvised explosive devices, along with an AK-47 rifle and two magazines. Three individuals managed to escape during the raid.
The proximity of these incidents to the Kenya-Somalia border is concerning, as militants have previously crossed the border to carry out attacks. Despite initial plans by the Kenyan government to reopen the border with Somalia last year, the decision was postponed due to ongoing extremist threats and attacks.
