A security operation in Mandera County turned tragic on Tuesday night after at least five Kenyan security officers were killed when their patrol vehicle struck a suspected improvised explosive device (IED) near the Kenya-Somalia border.
The officers, who included four members of the elite Special Operations Group (SOG) and one National Police Reservist, were conducting a routine patrol in the El-Raamo area of Kutulo along the Alungu Main Supply Route when the incident occurred.
According to reports, the explosive device had been planted along the road used by security teams operating in the region.
The powerful blast destroyed the patrol vehicle instantly, leaving the five officers dead at the scene.
The attack is being viewed as one of the most serious security incidents reported in the region in recent months and has once again highlighted the dangers faced by officers working in areas close to the Kenya-Somalia border.
Sources familiar with the incident said the officers were carrying out normal security duties when their vehicle triggered the explosive.
The area has remained under close watch due to previous security threats linked to militant activity.
Shortly after the explosion, a gun battle broke out between security officers and the suspected attackers.
The exchange of fire lasted for some time as officers attempted to respond to the ambush. However, the attackers managed to escape from the area.
Reports indicate that the militants took advantage of the confusion caused by the explosion and fled before additional security teams arrived.
Following the attack, security agencies deployed reinforcements to the area and launched operations aimed at tracking down those responsible. Authorities believe the suspects may have crossed toward nearby border areas after carrying out the attack.
Although no group had claimed responsibility by the time of publication, investigators are examining possible links to Al-Shabaab militants, who have previously carried out similar cross-border attacks in northeastern Kenya.
Security officials suspect the explosive device may have been planted several days earlier, possibly around July 21, before being triggered during the patrol.
The attack came after reports that suspicious militant movements had been observed in the area in recent days.
Those reports had led to increased patrols as security agencies sought to prevent potential threats.
Several officers injured during the gun attack were airlifted to Nairobi for specialized treatment. Senior security officials have also been monitoring the situation closely.
Deputy Inspector General of the Administration Police Gilbert Masengeli was among the leaders who visited the injured officers in hospital as investigations into the deadly attack continue.
