Kenya: Five chiefs abducted by suspected militants ahead of president's tour

NAIROBI, Kenya

Five Kenya administration chiefs were on Monday abducted by suspected al-Shabaab militants in Mandera County, northeastern Kenya bordering Ethiopia to the north and Somalia to the east.

Northeastern Regional Commissioner John Otieno said the five were heading towards Elwak when they were hijacked between Bamba Owla and Ires Suki.

According to the regional police boss, a joint security team has been deployed to pursue the abductors.

Further reports indicate that the local administrators were to hold a meeting ahead of President William Ruto’s tour to the region this week.

Ruto is scheduled to begin a week-long tour of the North Eastern region, as part of efforts to engage with local communities and address regional development priorities. 

Accompanied by his Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, the President is scheduled visit Mandera, Garissa, and Wajir Counties where he is expected to assess ongoing projects besides meeting the local leadership.