Two suspects have been arrested in connection with a powerful explosion that rocked a food joint in Mandera Town on the afternoon of Monday, April 7, 2025. The incident, which occurred at the Delicacy Food Hotel in the Shafshafey area, left one person seriously injured and caused significant structural damage to the premises.
Authorities suspect that the two individuals were in the process of planting an improvised explosive device (IED) when it detonated prematurely. The force of the blast tore off the hotel’s rooftop and caused visible cracks in its walls. At the time of the explosion, four customers were inside the eatery. While three managed to escape unharmed, one person suffered a fractured left femur and shrapnel injuries to the abdomen. The injured victim was rushed to Mandera Referral Hospital, where he remains in stable condition.
Investigations have revealed that two of the individuals who initially fled the scene were actually involved in the attempted attack. They were later apprehended and are currently in police custody. A third suspect, believed to be a bodaboda rider who transported the duo to the location, is still at large. Authorities say he fled moments after the device exploded.
Security forces comprising a multi-agency team have launched an extensive probe into the incident. The Mandera region, located near the Kenya-Somalia border, has long been a hotspot for attacks linked to al-Shabaab militants. The group, which frequently crosses into Kenya from neighboring Somalia, has targeted both civilians and security installations in a sustained campaign that has hampered local development and disrupted daily life.
The timing of the explosion is notable, as it came just a day after the release of five Kenyan chiefs who had been abducted by suspected militants in Elwak on February 3, 2025. The chiefs Mohammed Adawa, Mohammed Hassan, Mohammed Noor, Assistant Chief Ibrahim Gabow, and Senior Chief Abdi Suraw were freed in Jilb, Somalia, on Sunday, April 6, following protracted negotiations led by community elders.
According to those involved in the discussions, the chiefs were handed over to Garreh elders in Jilb and preparations are underway for their return to Elwak. The successful release has brought a sense of relief to the affected families and communities, but it also underscores the persistent insecurity in the border region.
In response to the ongoing threat, the government has intensified security operations in Mandera and its surrounding areas. Dozens of security personnel have been deployed to conduct patrols and surveillance, aiming to prevent further incidents and restore confidence among residents.
Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Investigations into the food joint explosion are ongoing, with the two suspects facing possible charges related to terrorism and unlawful possession of explosives. The manhunt for the third accomplice continues as security agencies work to dismantle the networks enabling such attacks.
The latest incident has renewed calls for enhanced border security and cooperation between Kenyan and Somali authorities. Residents, meanwhile, are hopeful that the ongoing efforts will bring lasting peace and stability to the troubled region.
