18 Dec 2020 | 08:36 PM UTC
Kenya: Suspected militants destroy telecommunication structure in Mandera County, Dec. 18
Suspected militants destroy communication structure in Mandera country, Kenya, Dec. 18. Threat of militancy remains high near Somali border.
Event
Suspected Al-Shabab militants attacked a telecommunication structure in the town of Elele, Mandera County, Kenya, Dec. 18. The telecommunication structure belonged to the country's leading mobile network operator, Safaricom. Authorities confirmed the attack resulted in damage; however, no casualties have been reported. No suspects have been apprehended, and no group has as yet claimed responsibility for the attack; however, authorities believe Al-Shabaab is responsible for the incident.
Context
The Somalia-based Al-Shabaab militant group operates in the area and has been implicated regularly in bombings, shootings, kidnappings, and attacks on vehicles. The terrorist threat near the shared border with Somalia is persistently high; this includes Mandera, Wajir, and Garissa counties.
Advice
Always consult with trusted local sources on tactical conditions and consider travel in guarded convoys in areas near the Kenya-Somalia border. Complete all movements well in advance of nightfall. Maintain contact with diplomatic missions.
