Six Kenyans were killed on Friday morning by suspected Al-Shabaab militants at Dhobley town near Garissa County on the Kenya-Somalia border.
According to reports, the victims, who were traders, had crossed into Somalia to open their shops when they were ambushed by gunmen wearing masks and traveling in a probox vehicle. The assailants opened fire indiscriminately, resulting in the immediate death of four individuals, while two succumbed to their injuries while undergoing treatment in a hospital.
Garissa County Police Commander, John Samburumo, confirmed the incident, highlighting the swift escape of the suspects following the 7:15 am attack. He urged Kenyan traders in the vicinity to remain vigilant, emphasizing the cross-border nature of the issue and the need for appropriate handling.
Mohamed Ramadhan, the Garrisa County Commissioner, stated that investigations are underway to uncover the motives behind the assault. While initial reports suggest a possible religious association as the reason for the attack, official confirmation is pending.
Efforts are underway to transport the bodies of the victims to Garrisa town for further processing, as authorities grapple with the aftermath of this tragic event.