Al-Shabaab gunmen kill Chief, teacher in Garissa dawn attack

Gunmen believed to be from Shabbab militants from neighbouring Somalia killed a chief and a primary school teacher in Hulugho, Garissa County during a dawn attack on Monday, January 26.

The administrator, Senior Chief of Boma Location Abdifatah Gani and Hulugho Primary School teacher Stephen Musili were killed in a night raid in what authorities say was a terrorist attack carried out by the militants.

The attackers shot the chief at close range in front of his family before setting his vehicle ablaze. The gunmen later opened fire on the teacher who was attempting to flee after hearing gunshots.

Garissa County Commissioner Mohamed Mwabudzo condemned the incident, saying security agencies were on the lookout to track down the attackers. “It is extremely unfortunate that we have lost two lives at the hands of militants. The late chief was a hardworking administrator who played a pivotal role in ensuring the area remained peaceful. I convey my condolences to the affected families,” he said.

“They can run, but they cannot hide. We will definitely catch up with them,” added Mwabudzo.

The National Police Service said a coordinated operation involving multiple security units was in pursuit to find those behind the killings. "A multi-agency security team is actively pursuing the perpetrators of this cowardly act. The area has been secured, and an operation is ongoing to apprehend those responsible and ensure they face the full force of the law," the statement read.

The police called on members of the public to support investigations by sharing any useful information. "We urge the public to remain calm and vigilant, and to cooperate with the security agencies. We also appeal to anyone with information regarding this incident which may assist the ongoing investigation to contact their nearest police station," the statement said.

The service urged anyone with information regarding the incident to visit the nearest police station or contact security agencies through toll-free numbers: 999, 911, or 112.

Condemning what she said was senseless violence, Garissa women Member of Parliament Edo Udgoon Siyad described the death of the administrator and the teachers as a profound loss for the entire Garissa community.

"I send my condolences to the families of Chief Abdi Gani Owl and the dedicated teacher, both of whom served the Hulugho community with unwavering commitment. They were tragically killed in a violent attack by suspected Al-Shabaab militants. Their deaths are a profound loss to their families and to the entire community,” said the legislator.

"We condemn this senseless violence and stand united in support of all affected. May Chief Gani rest in Jannatul Firdaus, and may the teacher’s family find strength and peace," she added.

Echoing her sentiments, Ijara Member of Parliament Abdi Ali Abdi urged security agencies to strengthen security in the area and bring the perpetrators to justice.

"I strongly and unequivocally condemn this heinous attack. Targeting our community leaders and educators is an assault on governance, education and the very foundation of our shared future,” he said.