Five chiefs from Mandera who were kidnapped by suspected Al-Shabaab fighters earlier this year will be decorated with the Head of State Commendation, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has announced.
Speaking in Elwak on Tuesday during the second day of the government’s Jukwaa la Usalama tour in Mandera, Murkomen said the administrators showed rare courage and commitment despite the painful ordeal, noting that their loyalty to public service never wavered.
“To recognise the selflessness and patriotism of our NGAO officers, who often put their lives on the line to safeguard our nation, the government will confer the Head of State Commendation on the five chiefs who were abducted in Mandera in the line of duty. This recognition is a testament to their courage, resilience and unwavering dedication to national service,” he stated.
He assured government officers that their safety remains a priority, adding that the State continues to stand firmly with them as they serve Kenyans in all corners of the country.
Murkomen also extended an apology to the five chiefs, who were travelling to attend a preparatory meeting for President William Ruto’s scheduled visit when they were seized.
“On behalf of the Government of Kenya, I want to extend my apologies to the five chiefs who were on their way to President William Ruto’s meeting before their abduction. This year, the five will be awarded state commendation for their strength in going through the turmoil and still accepting to return to work,” he said.
The CS commended chiefs in Mandera and across the country for serving under difficult and sometimes life-threatening conditions, particularly in areas affected by insecurity. He urged them to remain firm as the first line of government representation at the grassroots.
The five administrators, drawn from Wargadud East, Qurahmudow and Chachabole, were abducted in February while travelling from Wargadud to Elwak Town for official duties. Their vehicle was hijacked between Bamba Owla and Ires Suki, according to Mandera South Police Commander Julius Njeru.
They were taken across the border into Somalia and held for nearly two months before being released on April 6 under unclear circumstances. Local elders were credited with playing a central role in their return.
The abduction triggered outrage and fears over insecurity along the Kenya-Somalia border. President Ruto condemned the incident, describing it as a desperate attempt by terrorists to spread fear, and directed the National Police Service to mount operations against terror networks in the region.
“We will spare no effort in dealing with these criminal elements. I have directed the National Police Service to initiate an operation to deal with the criminal elements operating in this part of the country,” Ruto said.
Murkomen confirmed that the chiefs will receive the commendation during the upcoming Jamhuri Day celebrations, saying the recognition affirms their bravery and sends a message to all officers working in volatile areas that their service is valued.
“This is very good news based on collaborative efforts. As I had announced earlier, we decided to work together with the county government and the community, and this process has borne fruit,” Murkomen added.
