The Acting Inspector General of Police, Mr. Gilbert Masengeli, along with DCI Mr. Mohamed I. Amin, convened a pivotal security meeting in Moyale on August 15, 2024.
The top security chiefs are investigating the abduction of two Korean nationals which occurred on the night of August 12, around 9:00 PM.
Two armed gunmen stormed Odda Mission Secondary School, where the victims were residing.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects, armed and dangerous, fled the scene on motorbikes towards Funanyatta along the Marsabit-Moyale Highway, firing shots as they escaped.
In response, a multi-agency search and rescue team initiated an immediate operation. So far, eight suspects have been apprehended, including six Ethiopian nationals, with the suspects presented before Moyale Principal Magistrate’s Court on August 13, 2024. A 10-day custodial order has been granted to facilitate further investigations.
Security officers recovered three cartridges from the scene, which have been forwarded to the DCI Forensic Lab for ballistic analysis.
The incident has raised significant concerns about the safety of foreign nationals and the need for enhanced security measures in the region.
In a show of solidarity, area Member of Parliament Prof. Jaldesa Guyo Waqo joined Mr. Masengeli at the scene of the abduction, accompanied by GSU Commandant Mr. Ranson Lolmodooni, SAIG and Director of the Anti-Terror Police Unit Mr. Said Kiprotich, and Border Police Unit Commandant Isaac Alimaa.
During the meeting with regional and county security teams, Mr. Masengeli urged collaborative efforts between security agencies and the public to address insecurity in the area. He appealed for any information regarding the abduction to be reported to the police.
DCI Mr. Amin echoed this call, emphasizing the importance of unity among officers in the ongoing search operation to ensure the safe return of the abducted individuals.
The National Police Service has encouraged anyone with pertinent information about the incident to contact the DCI toll-free number 0800 722 203, or reach out to NPS hotline numbers 999/112/911, or visit the nearest police station.
