Somalia Returns Rifles From Slain Kenyan Police Officer

Somalia has returned two rifles to Kenya following an attack that resulted in the death of a police officer and injuries to another. The rifles were originally seized by the assailants during the ambush. Authorities are continuing investigations and have launched a manhunt for the suspects involved in the attack, which appears to be retaliatory in nature.

Authorities in Somalia have returned two rifles to Kenyan officials following the tragic death of a police officer during an attack at a security post near the Kenya-Somalia border in Mandera County. The rifles, a G3 and an AK47, were handed over to the Mandera security team on Saturday morning, but the handover was not complete, as only 10 out of the original 90 bullets were returned along with the firearms.

The incident, which occurred on March 14, involved an ambush by approximately 20 armed assailants targeting five officers from the Border Police Unit. Constable Dennis Omari was unfortunately killed in this assault, while another officer suffered a gunshot wound, necessitating medical treatment at Mandera Referral Hospital and subsequent airlifting to Nairobi for further care.

The armed attackers allegedly fled the scene with the slain officer’s G3 rifle, which contained 60 rounds, and an AK47 with 30 rounds. Initial police investigations suggest that the attack might have been executed in retaliation for the recent arrest of individuals linked to a foiled abduction attempt involving Chinese nationals. There is speculation that the assault was coordinated in part by an associate of one of the captured suspects, who is believed to be affiliated with a governmental agency.

In response to the incident, senior police officials visited the attack site to facilitate ongoing investigations. Kenyan authorities have publicly called for the return of the firearms and the apprehension of the attackers responsible. After this appeal, Somali authorities communicated their recovery of the rifles and readiness to return them. Despite these developments, the suspects behind the attack remain at large, prompting Somalia’s military to initiate a manhunt for those involved in the violent act.

In summary, the return of the rifles by Somalia’s authorities marks a significant step in response to the recent violence where a Kenyan police officer lost his life. The attack, believed to be motivated by revenge for previous arrests, highlights ongoing security challenges in the region. Continued efforts are essential to apprehend the suspects, maintain safety, and bolster cooperative efforts between Kenyan and Somali law enforcement.

Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke