- Interior PS Raymond Omollo affirms government’s commitment to rescuing the five abducted chiefs.
- Security operations ongoing, though details remain classified.
- Engagements with a neighboring country to ensure their safe return.
- Abduction highlights growing security concerns and need for vigilance.
- Al-Shabaab demands KSh 7 million ransom for the release of the chiefs.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has reaffirmed the government’s dedication to ensuring the safe return of the five chiefs kidnapped in Mandera County.
Speaking on Wednesday, March 13, Omollo, while appearing on Spice FM, stated that significant efforts are being made behind the scenes. However, he refrained from disclosing specifics due to security reasons.
“A lot is being done, but some things cannot be discussed publicly. This incident should remind everyone that security is a shared responsibility.”
Government Engaging Regional Partners for Rescue Mission
Omollo further emphasized that President William Ruto’s administration has taken the matter seriously and has initiated engagements with authorities in a neighboring country, where the chiefs are believed to have been taken.
“The President made it clear that everything possible will be done to bring them home safely. These chiefs crossed into a neighboring country, and while borders may be political distinctions, the communities remain the same. Active discussions are underway to ensure their return.”
The five chiefs – Mohammed Adawa, Mohammed Hassan, Mohammed Noor, Assistant Chief Ibrahim Gabow, and Senior Chief Abdi Suraw – were abducted in February 2025 after their vehicle was ambushed by suspected Al-Shabaab militants between Bamba Owla and Ires Suki in Elwak, Mandera County.
The group was reportedly on its way to coordinate logistics for President Ruto’s planned visit to the region when they were intercepted.
Ruto Orders Security Agencies to Secure Their Release
During his recent tour, President Ruto assured the public that the chiefs would be brought back home and vowed to sustain the crackdown on criminal groups.
“I have directed the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Gilbert Masengeli, to do everything within his power to secure the release of the five chiefs.”
The President also stated that the government had significantly weakened Al-Shabaab’s operational capacity in Kenya and was committed to securing northern Kenya, just like the rest of the country.
Al-Shabaab Demands KSh 7 Million Ransom
A few days after the abduction, reports emerged that the Al-Shabaab militants behind the kidnapping were demanding a ransom of KSh 7 million for the release of the chiefs.
Security agencies continue to monitor the situation, with efforts ongoing to ensure their safe return.
