he Kenyan government is working tirelessly to ensure the safe return of five chiefs who were abducted by suspected al-Shabaab militants in Mandera County. The chiefs, identified as Mohammed Adawa, Mohammed Hassan, Mohammed Noor, Assistant Chief Ibrahim Gabow, and Senior Chief Abdi Suraw, were taken hostage in February while traveling to Elwak for a security planning meeting ahead of President William Ruto’s visit to the region.
Interior Principal Secretary (PS) Raymond Omollo, speaking on Spice FM on Wednesday, assured the public that significant efforts are underway to secure the chiefs’ release. While he refrained from disclosing specific details, Omollo emphasized that security remains a collective responsibility, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
“There is a lot of work going on, some of which we may not discuss on air, but this should remind everyone that security is everyone’s concern. These are government officials who serve the nation, and their abduction shows that no one is immune to insecurity threats,” Omollo stated.
President Ruto has also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to bringing the chiefs home safely. He disclosed that Kenya is actively engaging with authorities in the neighboring country where the hostages are believed to have been taken. These diplomatic efforts aim to secure their release without escalating tensions.
“The President made it clear that he will do whatever it takes to ensure the safe return of the five chiefs. Our engagements with relevant parties are ongoing to guarantee their safe repatriation,” Omollo added.
The abduction highlights the persistent security challenges posed by al-Shabaab militants in the region. The government, however, remains firm in its stance against terrorism. President Ruto noted that Kenya has significantly weakened the group’s operational capacity, and efforts will continue to ensure that northern Kenya remains as secure as any other part of the country.
Shortly after the kidnapping, the militants reportedly demanded a ransom of Ksh7 million for the release of the chiefs. Authorities have not publicly confirmed whether negotiations include ransom payments, but security teams remain determined to bring the captives home safely.
As efforts to rescue the chiefs continue, the government urges citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies to curb terrorism and enhance regional stability.
