Two Kenyan police reservists were killed and two others wounded after an improvised explosive device exploded near a border patrol post in Mandera County, close to the Somalia border, according to police.
The blast occurred at Kulun Border Point Four along the Bulla Hawa–Mandera crossing, around 100 metres inside Kenyan territory in Mandera East Sub County. The officers were attached to the National Police Reserve and were conducting routine patrols at the remote position when the device detonated.
Police said the scene was secured by multi agency teams, with evidence recovered and a secondary explosive device safely detonated. Weapons were accounted for, and the bodies of the deceased were released for burial in line with Islamic rites.
The officers killed were identified as Police Constable Abdirashid Shabellow Ali and Corporal Mohammed Abdow Issack. Two other officers were injured in the blast. Police Constable Abdullahi Jillow Adan was treated for blast related injuries and is in stable condition, while Police Constable Athan Noor Abdullah Abdi remains in critical condition and is receiving specialised treatment at Mandera Referral Hospital.
Security officials said the attack is suspected to have been carried out by the Al Shabab armed group, which has repeatedly targeted patrol units operating along the Kenya–Somalia border.
The border region is known for difficult terrain, dense bush and informal crossings, factors that complicate surveillance and security operations. Similar attacks have previously been reported in Mandera and neighbouring counties, including incidents involving roadside bombs targeting security personnel.
Police said investigations into the incident are ongoing and that additional patrols have been deployed to reinforce security in the area.