Suspected Al-Shabaab militants attack Arabia and Fino towns in Mandera County

Suspected Al-Shabaab militants launched coordinated attacks on the towns of Arabia and Fino in Mandera County on Friday evening, triggering exchanges of gunfire between the attackers and security forces.

According to preliminary reports, the attack on Fino began between 6pm and 7pm, with a similar assault reported in Arabia about an hour later. Residents said heavy gunfire could be heard in both towns as security personnel responded to the suspected militants.

At Arabia Police Station, security officers reportedly repelled an attempted assault after approximately eight heavily armed militants attacked the security installation from the southeastern side.

The attackers are reported to have used AK-47 rifles and rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) in an attempt to breach the security compound. Security officers managed to repel the assault, although the full extent of casualties and damage remains unclear.

In Fino, residents reported that a breastfeeding child of the headteacher of Fino Primary School was injured during the incident and was taken to Mandera County Referral Hospital for medical treatment.

The simultaneous attacks have heightened security concerns in Lafey Constituency, which borders Somalia and has previously faced threats from Al-Shabaab militants.

Authorities have yet to issue a comprehensive official statement on the attacks, and details regarding casualties among the security forces, civilians and attackers remain unconfirmed.

The situation remains under close monitoring as security agencies assess the incidents and work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the attacks.

Mustaqbal