Five chiefs who were abducted in early February in Elwak Town, Mandera County, have been released, authorities have confirmed.

However, they remain in Somalia, where suspected al-Shabaab militants had held them hostage for over 60 days.

The abducted chiefs, Mohamed Adawa, Mohamed Hassan, Abdi Hassan, Mohamed Noor Hache, and Assistant Chief Ibrahim Gabow, were kidnapped while on their way to a meeting with the Elwak Deputy County Commissioner to plan for President William Ruto’s visit to the area.

Their release was reportedly secured through negotiations led by local elders who had been engaging with the captors.

While initial reports suggested that a ransom might have been demanded, it remains unclear whether any payment was made.

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Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen confirmed their release during a security meeting in Mombasa.

He stated that the chiefs, who serve under the Office of the President, are now in the hands of Kenyan authorities and arrangements are underway to reunite them with their families.

“We have good news that our chiefs who were abducted in Mandera have been released and they are now in the hands of Kenyan officials. They will be arriving home anytime soon,” said Mr. Murkomen. 

He praised the successful outcome as a result of collaborative efforts between the national government, the Mandera County Government, and local communities.