Police Issue Statement After Six People Were Killed In Militia Attack On A Matatu In Mandera County

The National Police Service has issued an official statement confirming that six people were killed and three others injured after suspected militia opened fire on a passenger matatu along the Mandera-Arabia Road on Saturday May 9.

According to the NPS a Nissan matatu with registration number KAO 914S had been hired to transport family members to Arabia Town when it came under indiscriminate gunfire shortly after passing Omar Jillo Centre. 

The attack was swift and left a trail of death and destruction on one of the region's busiest travel routes.

A multi-agency security team responded to a distress call and facilitated the immediate evacuation of the wounded to Arabia Sub-County Level Four Hospital. 

Six of the victims were pronounced dead on arrival while the three survivors who sustained serious injuries were later transferred to Mandera County Referral Hospital for specialised care.

The NPS extended condolences to the families of the deceased and assured the nation that a comprehensive search and pursuit operation involving specialised units was already underway in the area. Authorities vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice.

"We will not be cowed by such cowardly acts of violence," the statement signed by NPS Director of Corporate Communication Muchiri Nyaga read. 

Police urged members of the public with information about the attack to come forward and assist with investigations.

Residents can contact the nearest police station or reach investigators through toll-free numbers 999 and 911. 

Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the DCP tip line on 0800 722 203 or via WhatsApp on 0709 570 000 using the hashtag FichuaKwaDCI.

Mandera County borders Somalia and has historically faced security threats from militant groups and cross-border incursions. 

The region has recorded several attacks on civilians and vehicles over the years making safety along key transport corridors a persistent concern for residents and authorities alike.

Local leaders have renewed calls for enhanced security patrols along major roads in the county following Saturday's deadly ambush. 

The attack has once again drawn national attention to the vulnerability of commuters in Kenya's northeastern border region.

Police said further updates would be provided as the operation to track down the attackers progresses.