Kenya: Mandera Residents Camp At KDF Base Fearing More Attacks

The government is under pressure to end attacks

Wednesday, November 26, 2014

advertisements

At least 100 residents of Mandera county have camped outside the KDF base in the town for the third day running fearing an "imminent" attack by al Shabaab militants.

They are from Mandera town, Rhamu, Arabia and other insecurity hot spots and include teachers, health workers and business people.

"We have been here for the last three days and we are determined to extend our stay. We have our belongings and are ready to spend here as we are sure our adversaries cannot attempt to attack a KDF camp," David Ronoh who owns a private hospital said.

The residents have accused the government of neglecting their plight and called for the expedition of their transport to Nairobi, saying their security is not guaranteed.

The militia group is allegedly planning a night attack targeting non-locals.

"At the moment, there is a rumor that non-locals' residential houses are being earmarked for persecution purposes. I cannot risk this time round," a nurse who sought anonymity said, adding that her colleagues in Arabia have been talking about it.

"It is better I die here at the military camp than in my house. I think these criminals are not sleeping. It is as if they are everywhere, " she added.

Mandera East deputy county commissioner Elvis Korir on Monday evening visited the camp with area police commander Noah Mwivanda and asked the people to leave but they stayed put.

"There are neither toilets here nor bathrooms. Hotels are also not available. Why don't you heed our advice and go back to your houses or to the police station?" Korir asked.

He however asked KDF personnel manning the gate to erect a tent for them inside the camp and assured them that the government is in charge.

"We have heard your grievances and will sit immediately to deliberate on your concerns as we continue maintaining security, I assure you we are in full control of security," he said.

Meanwhile, buses passing through Omar Jillow, Arabia and other insecurity hot spots have been given armed escort.

Public service vehicles have been redirected to the Mandera-Rhamu-Wajir route, avoiding the more terror prone Mandera-Lafey-Wajir route which is near the Somalia border.

Security personnel also continue to patrol the streets of Mandera town making impromptu checks in residential areas and others believed to be susceptible to attacks.

Home
Email

Hiiraan Online