Seven people killed in a bandit attack in Marsabit

At least seven people have been confirmed dead following a violent attack by an armed group along Eledimtu-Forole Road in Marsabit County.

The incident occurred near the Ethiopia-Kenya border on Monday, August 12, but the motive behind the attack remains unclear, according to Eastern Regional Police Commander Charles Naibei. He stated that five people were killed instantly at the scene, and there may be additional casualties.

A report lodged at Forolle Police Station revealed that a lorry carrying nine passengers was ambushed by the attackers. Tragically, seven people, including two minors from a local secondary school, lost their lives in the assault. The attackers fired indiscriminately at the vehicle before setting it on fire, with some of the victims’ bodies being burned beyond recognition.

Among the survivors, one boy was discovered the following morning with a fractured limb, and another individual sustained burn injuries but managed to seek help. Remarkably, the only other survivor, a Form One girl, escaped unharmed and fled into the night to avoid the attackers. The incident was reported to Forolle Police Station by 16-year-old survivor Talaso Wato, who managed to survive the harrowing ordeal.

Former Marsabit Governor Ukur Yatani expressed deep concern over the incident and called on Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki to take immediate action. Yatani urged the deployment of additional security personnel to the border area to protect the local communities from further attacks.

Yatani highlighted the need for urgent intervention, stressing that the attack, which appears to have been carried out by suspected militia from a neighboring country, should not be taken lightly. He emphasized the importance of securing the border region to prevent such tragedies in the future.

The attack has sparked fear and outrage among residents, who are now calling for increased security measures to ensure their safety. The loss of innocent lives, particularly those of the two minors, has left the community devastated and demanding justice.

As the investigation into the attack continues, authorities are working to identify the perpetrators and uncover the reasons behind this violent act. The community is hopeful that swift action will be taken to bring those responsible to justice.

The tragic incident has brought to light the ongoing security challenges in the border region, and there is a growing demand for the government to strengthen its efforts in protecting the vulnerable communities living in these areas.