Al-Shabaab militants kill quarry workers in Kenya

MANDERA, Kenya - At least five quarry workers were killed by the suspected al-Shabaab militants in Mandera, Kenya, officials said Tuesday, in the latest incident, which comes a fortnight after the militants released five local administrators who had been kidnapped.

Tuesday's raid at a quarry in Bur Abor village near the Kenya-Somalia border in Mandera East targeted quarry workers, who had been mining in the area. Those killed are non-locals who work within the area as casual laborers, officials said.

The incident took place at around 7 am East African Time when the armed fighters killed the innocent civilians. Although the group is yet to take responsibility, officials maintain that their operations resemble Al-Shabaab's tactical operations.

“This is a deeply troubling event,” said Mohamed Abdiaziz Roble, the village administrator of Bur Abor. “The identities of the victims are being confirmed, and efforts are underway to notify their families.”

Previously, the militants have targeted non-locals, and at some point, the strategy forced a mass exodus of teachers and doctors working within the northeastern region. The government facilitated the exit as it sorted out security problems.

Roble said the village administration is working closely with local law enforcement to enhance safety and urged residents to report any suspicious activities. The attack comes three months after President William Ruto's visit.

“We are doing everything we can to ensure that justice is served and that our community is protected,” he added.

Authorities have since heightened security across Mandera East and surrounding areas as investigations continue. In recent weeks, the militants had reduced attacks in Mandera, Wajir, and Garissa due to the high presence of security personnel.

The al-Shabaab militants are fighting to topple the fragile UN-backed federal government of Somalia. Kenya is among the countries that have contributed troops to the Horn of Africa nations, besides tightening security protocols within its borders.

GAROWE ONLINE