Five quarry workers killed, two injured in Mandera attack

At least five quarry workers were killed and two others injured during a dawn attack on Tuesday at Bur Abor mining site in Mandera county.

Mandera County Commissioner Henry Ochako said suspected Al-Shabaab militants fired at a vehicle carrying 21 quarry workers, killing five on the spot.

"We lost five quarry men in an unfortunate incident this morning April 29, 2025, at Bur Abor Village in Mandera after a vehicle they were traveling in was attacked by Al Shabaab militants. Two others escaped with bullet injuries," said the commissioner.

“Sixteen workers who were onboard the vehicle managed to escape and our security agencies ferried them safely back to Mandera,” he added.

The incident has raised concern over the security of residents in Bur Abor location.

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Sultan Mohamud Sheikh said the Khalalio - Bur Abor route, where the incident occurred, has been the safest in the county and called on the government to dispatch security personnel to investigate the matter.

"We are shocked by the attack on our quarry miners, as the place has been most secure in the county. We want the police to investigate the matter and bring justice to the casualties," the area chairman told The Satndard on phone 

Mr Ochako assured residents that his office is working with the village administration to strengthen security in the area.

“I am aware there is some sense of insecurity in the village right now, but we are doing everything within our reach to ensure that justice is served and our people are protected,” he said.

The chairman of quarry owners in Mandera Alio Maalim who condoled with families of the victims,, called for the suspension of mining activities until security is restored in the area 

"As I send a message of condolence to affected families and friends, I would like to notify the general public that the quarry works will stop until our miners are secured and security is restored," he said.

Mr Alio wants the government to provide escort to the quarry workers to guarantee their security.

The Standard established that Governor Mohamed Khalif's administration will facilitate the transportation of the bodies to their final areas of rest.

The county commissioner has urged the locals to stay alert and report any suspicious activity in the Khalalio-Hareri area in Mandera East

The attack marks the first reported incident of insecurity along the Khalalio-Hareeri area, sparking concern among residents.