Prior to the abduction of two Cuban doctors in Mandera, the US Embassy, Nairobi had issued a warning to its citizens on areas likely to be hotspots for abduction, terrorism and other crimes in Kenya on April 9, 2019.
The Embassy advised American nationals to take caution due to the increased crime in Kenya, adding that the Kenyan police were willing but lacked the capability to respond effectively to the serious criminal incidences and terrorist attacks.
On their website, the Embassy warned against travelling to the area near the Kenya-Somali border including Mandera, Wajir and Garissa.
"Terrorist attacks have occurred with little or no warning, targeting Kenyan and foreign government facilities.
"Terrorist acts have included armed assaults, suicide operations, bomb/grenade attacks, and kidnappings," read part of the report.
Three days after this warning, two Cuban doctors, Assel Herera Correa (Physician) and Landy Rodriguez (Surgeon) were abducted from Mandera town on Friday by people believed to be Al Shabaab militants.
The suspects also fatally shot a police officer who was guarding them before disappearing with the two medics.
The three, plus another police officer, were believed to be headed to their work station when the kidnappers ambushed them.
"All security agencies have been mobilized to pursue the criminals and rescue the victims. We urge members of the public to remain calm and avoid speculations as security agencies pursue the criminals," read a statement from the National Police Service.
The police added they the driver of the vehicle that was taking the two doctors to their workplace had been taken in for questioning.
