Mandera, Kenya (KAAB TV) – Two quarry workers were abducted by gunmen believed to be members of the militant group al-Shabaab in the Shimbir area of Mandera County, located in northeastern Kenya.
According to police reports, the incident occurred around midday when a truck transporting stones was ambushed near Chachaboole by gunmen suspected to have been hiding in nearby bushes.
Four of the individuals on board—all local residents—managed to escape the attack. However, two non-local workers, identified as John Kambua and Martin Musyoki, were taken hostage and transported to an unknown location.
In response, a multi-agency security operation was launched immediately to locate the militants and rescue the abducted workers.
This attack comes amid a rising wave of insecurity in Mandera County, particularly targeting laborers working in quarries. The region’s vulnerability is largely attributed to its proximity to the Somalia border, where al-Shabaab remains active.
Further intensifying concerns, the body of Naftali Wanjohi, aged 40, was discovered on June 16 in a quarry located in the Quramadhoo area near Elwak. Authorities suspect al-Shabaab involvement, though investigations remain ongoing and no arrests have been made.
The latest incidents have renewed fears among non-local workers who continue to be at heightened risk while working in the volatile region.
Government Response: Ban on Quarrying Activities
In light of the growing threats, the Governor of Mandera County has ordered an immediate suspension of all quarrying activities. He cited escalating security risks and emphasized the urgent need to safeguard workers’ lives.
Security forces remain on high alert as efforts to curb militant activity in the region continue.