ELWAK (SD) – A group of armed individuals abducted five village chiefs traveling between Elwak and Mandera while they were conducting inspections related to government activities in parts of Mandera County.

The police commander of southern Mandera County, Mr. Julius Njeru, confirmed the abduction.

The officials had departed from El-Gadud and were heading to Elwak when the incident occurred, according to Mr. Njeru.

Mandera County’s security forces have been placed on high alert, and an extensive search operation is underway to rescue the elders.

Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for the abduction of the five Mandera County chiefs through its media outlets.

Mandera County Governor, Mr. Mohamed Adan Khalif, strongly condemned the incident and urged security officials to intensify their efforts to ensure the swift rescue of the abducted chiefs.

This abduction comes just days before Kenya’s President, Dr. William Arap Samoei Ruto, is expected to visit Mandera County.