Al-Shabaab, the militant group linked to al-Qaeda, has reportedly demanded a ransom of KSh 7 million for the release of five Kenyan chiefs kidnapped in Mandera County.
The chiefs were abducted while travelling from Wargadud to Elwak town on Monday, February 3, 2025.
The incident underscores the ongoing security challenges in Kenya’s northeastern region, which borders Somalia, where Al-Shabaab is active.
This area has been a frequent target for Al-Shabaab due to its proximity to Somalia and the porous nature of the border, facilitating cross-border incursions.
While there has been no official government statement on this specific ransom demand in the provided information, the Kenyan government has historically been involved in operations to counter Al-Shabaab activities, both within Kenya and in collaboration with forces in Somalia.
Locals indicate a mix of concern and frustration over the situation, with some people highlighting the significant amount of the ransom and the implications for local governance and security.
The abduction follows a pattern of attacks by Al-Shabaab in Kenya, particularly targeting local administrators and security personnel.
Mandera County has been a hotspot for such incidents, with previous abductions and attacks reported.
There are unverified reports suggesting that community elders might be involved in negotiations for the release of the chiefs, reflecting a strategy sometimes employed in such situations to leverage local influence.
