A tragic terror attack in Nyongoro area of Lamu County resulted in the death of the wife of Hindi Member of County Assembly (MCA) Kariuki Njagaa.
The attack which occurred on Tuesday, August 1, was suspected to be carried out by Al-Shabaab terrorists. The attackers are reported to have used Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPGs) and assault rifles.
The MCA and his family were traveling in a convoy of vehicles when they came under fire from the militants.
“Al-Shabaab al-Mujāhideen Terrorists attacked three civilian vehicles, including one belonging to Hindi area MCA, using RPGs & assault rifles,” read a report from Counter Terrorism & Security Intelligence unit.
During the ambush, the MCA sustained a gunshot wound to the leg. However, his wife tragically suffered a gunshot wound to the head which killed her.
Their car was targeted alongside several other vehicles by the terrorist group.
In the wake of the attack, other occupants of the convoy sought safety in the nearby bush. They stayed hidden until security forces arrived at the scene. The injured were then quickly rushed to Witu Level 4 Hospital for medical treatment, while the deceased was taken to the morgue.
In response to the incident, security forces, including the Special Operations Group and forest rangers, swiftly mobilized to counter the terror group. Simultaneously, the police launched a manhunt to apprehend the suspects who had fled the scene.
The Interior Cabinet Secretary, Kithure Kindiki, confirmed the incident. He expressed concern about the unknown number of people who had gone missing. Kindiki also revealed that approximately 60 terrorists were present during the attack.
“While a combined security operation of elite contingents of the National Police Service (NPS) and the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) is currently underway, treatment of the injured, as well as the search and rescue of missing civilians, is ongoing,” Kindiki stated.
Human Rights Group condemns attack
Following the incident, Muslims for Human Rights (MUHURI) condemned the attack. MUHURI has called for a prompt response and thorough investigation to apprehend the culprits.
The rights group also issued a statement expressing their sympathy for the victims and their families.
“We strongly condemn this cowardly act of violence and extend our deepest sympathies to the victims and their families. Such heinous acts targeting innocent civilians not only undermine the principles of peace and unity but also threaten the fabric of our society,” the statement read.
“MUHURI calls for a swift and thorough investigation to identify and apprehend the perpetrators of this attack. We urge law enforcement agencies to take immediate action and bring the culprits to justice. It is essential to reinforce the importance of security. Law enforcers must ensure that every citizen feels protected and safe,” the statement continued.
As the investigation into the attack continues, authorities are working tirelessly to track down the terrorists responsible for this senseless act of violence.
The death of MCA Kariuki Njagaa’s wife has brought grief and sorrow to their family and the community. It also comes at a time when the terror group has increased attacks in counties bordering Somalia.
Kenyan authorities have vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice and enhance security measures to safeguard citizens and visitors alike.
