By Adan Mohamed - Reporter
9 May 2026 - Six people have been confirmed dead while several others sustained injuries following an ambush on a passenger vehicle in Omar Jillo area, Arabia Sub-County in Mandera County.
The attack occurred on Saturday at around 12:40 pm when a Nissan Homy vehicle traveling towards Arabia town reportedly came under heavy gunfire from suspected armed assailants hiding in nearby bushes.
Confirming the incident, Mandera County Police Commander Robinson Ndiwa said the vehicle had been hired by passengers who were traveling for prayers when the attackers struck.
“The vehicle was passing through Omar Jillo when armed men suddenly emerged from the bushes and opened fire towards the vehicle,” said Ndiwa.
According to the police commander, the driver lost control as the vehicle came to a stop during the attack, leaving six passengers dead on the spot and three others seriously injured.
Three people, including the driver, reportedly escaped into the bushes during the ambush.
The injured victims were rushed to Arabia Sub-County Hospital before being referred to Mandera Referral Hospital for specialised treatment.
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Security officers and a rescue team from Arabia responded swiftly to the scene as security operations were launched to pursue the attackers and establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Commander Ndiwa said preliminary investigations indicate that four armed individuals were involved in the ambush before fleeing into the bush immediately after the attack.
“We are pursuing the attackers, and we urge members of the public to cooperate with security personnel by sharing any information that may help in their arrest,” he added.
The incident has sparked fear and concern among residents, especially after Mandera County had experienced a relatively long period of calm and improved security.
However, security officials have urged residents to remain calm, assuring the public that the situation is under control and that investigations are ongoing.