One Killed in Fresh Attack at Marsabit's Dabel Mining Site

July 14 ,2026 - A 21-year-old man was shot dead and another seriously injured in a fresh attack near the volatile Dabel gold mining area in Moyale Sub-County, Marsabit County, renewing security concerns at a site that has witnessed repeated deadly clashes over control of mineral resources.

Marsabit County Police Commander Leonard Kimaiyo said the two victims were travelling on a motorcycle when they were ambushed by armed assailants who opened fire before escaping with a gold detection device.

The deceased, identified as Dayo Adan Abdullahi, 21,died at the scene after sustaining gunshot wounds. The motorcycle rider, Abdi Aziz Noor,was shot in the abdomen and was rushed to Moyale Sub-County Hospital, where he remains in serious condition.

The body was moved to the hospital mortuary pending a post-mortem examination.

Mr Kimaiyo said detectives had launched investigations to establish the motive behind the attack and identify those responsible.

"We have commenced investigations and security operations have been intensified in the area as we pursue the suspects," he said.

The latest shooting comes as the government has been working to restore order and reopen the Dabel mining site, which was closed following a series of deadly confrontations between rival groups competing for control of gold deposits.

The artisanal mining site has in recent years become a flashpoint for violence, with several miners and traders killed in recurring clashes linked to disputes over mining claims, illegal firearms and competition for the lucrative gold business.

In 2024, the government indefinitely suspended mining activities at Dabel after a string of fatal shootings left several people dead and many others injured. Security agencies blamed the violence on armed criminal gangs and disputes among rival mining groups.

Since then, national and county government officials have held a series of consultative meetings with local leaders, elders and security agencies to develop measures aimed at restoring peace and creating a safe environment for the resumption of mining activities.

The reopening plan has included proposals to register miners, regulate access to the site, enhance security and formalise artisanal mining operations to curb illegal activities.

However, the latest attack is likely to raise fresh concerns over the security situation and the government's efforts to safely reopen one of northern Kenya's most promising artisanal gold mining areas.

Police said security patrols have been stepped up around Dabel as investigations into the latest killing continue.