13 Killed After Matatu Runs Over Explosive Device

A Kenyan police officer pictured at a crime scene.
A Kenyan police officer pictured at a crime scene.
Kenyans.co.ke

13 people were killed and several others injured after a matatu they were travelling in ran over an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) along the Arabia - Mandera Road.

According to multiple reports, the IED had been planted by people believed to be Al Shabaab sympathisers.

Police have since launched investigations into the incident even as the exact number of casualties remain unclear.

A Mandera-bound bus overturns after hitting an Improvised Explosive Device on Wednesday, March 24.
A Mandera-bound bus overturns after hitting an Improvised Explosive Device on Wednesday, March 24.
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According to eyewitnesses who spoke to the media, the incident took place at around 0600hrs on Monday, January 31 morning.

North Eastern Regional Commander, George Seda, stated that they received reports of the incident from residents who were also using the road in the morning hours.

He added that they were working around the clock to ensure that they establish what exactly happened. Seda also expressed that no arrest had been made following the early morning incident. 

The incident comes barely a week after over five foreign embassies issued terror alert warnings.

Through the French Embassy in Nairobi, the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs cushioned its nationals to take precaution warning of a looming terror attack in the country.

However, in response, the National Police Service (NPS) on Friday, January 28, through the spokesperson Bruno Shioso dispelled the reports stating that the police were on high alert.  

Consequently, President Uhuru Kenyatta held a meeting with the country's top security officials led by Interior Cabinet Secretary, Fred Matiang'i.

In a statement released by State House after the meeting, the government assured Kenyans of their security adding that they would be vigilant to protect citizens against terrorist attacks.

"President Kenyatta thanked the security chiefs for ensuring sustained peace and tranquillity in the country and assured the officials of continued Government backing especially in this period leading up to the forthcoming General Election," read the statement.

President Uhuru Kenyatta arrives at the National Police College Main Campus Kiganjo in Nyeri County on January 20, 2022.
President Uhuru Kenyatta arrives at the National Police College Main Campus Kiganjo in Nyeri County on January 20, 2022.
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