Hiiraan Online
Thursday September 27, 2018
FILE - Kenya security forces being deployed in El Wak
Nairobi (HOL) - Over 20 people have been injured and three houses torched after Kenyan forces raided Daba-city village in Mandera County near Kenya's border with Somalia.
A combined force of Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) and Anti-terror Police Unit (ATPU) have reportedly attacked the village on Wednesday after a vehicle they were travelling in ran over an IED which was planted on the road.
According to residents, the soldiers moved into the village after the incident reportedly beating up the men, women, and elders before torching the houses.
The victims are recovering at Elwak Hospital in Mandera County.
Mandera County governor, Ali Roba who confirmed the incident has accused the forces of attacking 22 unarmed civilians and torturing them.
The governor condemned the incident saying it may cause mistrust and insecurity in the area.
"This incident is going to recreate a situation of distrust between the public and the security which will mean a situation whereby the public will not be speaking about dangerous of Al-Shabaab movement which will mean take over this region by Al-Shabaab," Mr. Roba said.
Fearing new operations in the areas, many residents fled their homes.
The attack on the village comes barely two weeks after bodies of three herders found in Elram village near Elwak town.