At least six people were killed on Saturday after suspected gunmen ambushed a passenger vehicle in Beer-Awayon village in Mandera East, Mandera County.
The vehicle was travelling from Mandera town to Arabia town when it came under attack in what authorities suspect to be a targeted roadside assault.
Several other passengers sustained injuries during the incident and were rushed to hospital for treatment as security officers launched investigations into the deadly ambush.
According to reports, the attack occurred a few kilometres from Arabia town after armed assailants intercepted the vehicle before opening fire on the passengers.
The tragic incident has once again raised concerns over insecurity in parts of northern Kenya, particularly along routes near the Kenya-Somalia border where sporadic attacks by armed groups have been reported in recent years.
Lafey Member of Parliament Mohamed Abdikheir condemned the killings and called on the government to act swiftly in pursuing those behind the deadly attack.
“It is with profound sadness that I extend my deepest condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of the six innocent travellers who were brutally killed by unknown gunmen,” Abdikheir said in a statement shared on Facebook.
“My prayers are with the injured who are fighting for recovery amid this senseless violence,” he added.
The MP described the incident as a barbaric act and urged security agencies to intensify operations in the region to prevent further attacks targeting civilians.
He further called for speedy investigations and the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the killings.
Security officers have since launched investigations into the incident, although authorities are yet to officially reveal the identity of the attackers or the motive behind the ambush.
The attack is likely to renew pressure on security agencies to enhance patrols and intelligence operations in Mandera County, an area that has in the past experienced deadly attacks linked to armed militants and cross-border criminal activities.
Residents and leaders in the region have repeatedly appealed for stronger security measures, especially along routes frequently used by public service vehicles and traders.
Saturday’s attack leaves families in mourning as survivors continue receiving treatment in hospital following one of the latest deadly incidents to hit the region.